Ask an Explainer

Airplanes are very efficient at carrying a lot of passengers at once. They are great for long distance trips, they can carry a lot of weight, and some can even break the sound barrier, which helicopters cannot do.

Helicopters have the definite advantage of being able to land without a runway, which means they can access remote areas. They also can remain in one position, so people can climb on and off without it landing, which is great for rescue missions.