supersonic jetliner

Passenger aircraft whose cruising speed (1500 mph) is faster than the speed of sound (761 mph). The Concorde was the best known commercial aircraft of this type.

variable ejector nozzle

Duct whose mouth widens as the plane climbs, thus enabling the engines to increase output.

delta wing

Thin triangular wing that is especially aerodynamic.

droop nose

Articulated nose that is lowered on takeoff and landing to provide the pilot with better visibility.