What happens to an aircraft during a successful takeoff?

During a successful takeoff, the aircraft becomes airborne. This critical phase occurs when the lift generated by the wings surpasses the weight of the aircraft, allowing it to leave the ground and ascend into the sky. This process requires that the aircraft reach a specific speed, known as takeoff speed, where the aerodynamic forces adequately overcome gravitational forces.

In contrast, landing, taxiing, and hovering represent different stages or actions that do not coincide with the successful takeoff phase. Landing involves descending back to the ground, taxiing refers to the movement of the aircraft on the ground prior to takeoff or after landing, and hovering is primarily associated with rotorcraft where the aircraft remains at a fixed position above the ground. Therefore, the transition into the airborne state during takeoff is crucial and signifies that the aircraft has achieved the necessary flight conditions.