What does the term "airframe" refer to in aviation?

The term "airframe" in aviation specifically refers to the structural framework of the aircraft, which includes the fuselage, wings, tail, and any other parts that contribute to the overall physical structure. The airframe is responsible for providing the necessary strength and aerodynamic properties required for flight, as well as housing various components such as the cockpit and passenger areas.

In contrast, the engines are separate components that provide thrust, the cockpit is simply one part of the airframe dedicated to the operation of the aircraft, and control systems pertain to the mechanisms that manage flight but are not part of the main structural elements that constitute the airframe itself. Thus, recognizing the airframe as the primary structural component highlights its role in supporting the weight of the aircraft and withstanding aerodynamic forces during flight.