Boy Scout Troop 107 Greensboro NC: Aviation Merit Badge workbook - Free Printable

You’re looking at the Aviation Merit Badge Workbook, which is a guide for Boy Scouts to complete the requirements for earning the Aviation merit badge. The image shows Requirement 1a: *Define “aircraft.”*

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✔ Solution:

Definition of “aircraft”:

> Any craft that flies through the air, both heavier or lighter than the air.

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📝 Explanation:

This definition comes directly from the official Boy Scout Requirements (Pub. 33216 – SKU 619576), as stated in the workbook instructions. It’s intentionally broad to include all types of flying machines — not just airplanes.

Let’s break it down:

- “Craft that flies through the air” — This includes anything designed to operate in the atmosphere: planes, helicopters, gliders, blimps, hot air balloons, drones, etc.

- “Both heavier or lighter than the air” — This covers two main categories:
- Heavier-than-air craft: These rely on wings and propulsion to generate lift (e.g., airplanes, helicopters).
- Lighter-than-air craft: These use buoyancy (like helium or hot air) to float (e.g., blimps, balloons).

This inclusive definition ensures Scouts understand that “aircraft” isn’t limited to commercial jets or military planes — it encompasses the full spectrum of aviation technology.

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💡 Tip for Scouts:

When filling out your workbook, you should write this definition in your own words *after discussing it with your counselor*. The workbook says:
> *“The work space provided for each requirement should be used by the Scout to make notes for discussing the item with his counselor, not for providing the full and complete answers.”*

So, jot down key ideas like “flying machine,” “heavier/lighter than air,” and examples — then talk it over with your counselor to show understanding.

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✔ Final Answer to Requirement 1a:
> An aircraft is any vehicle or device capable of flight through the air, whether it is heavier than air (like airplanes and helicopters) or lighter than air (like balloons and blimps).

You’ve now completed the first step toward earning your Aviation merit badge! Keep going — next up might be explaining how an airplane flies or visiting an airport. 🛩️