"in the plane" vs "on the plane"

Question

"in the plane" vs "on the plane"

Both 'in the plane' and 'on the plane' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'In the plane' is used when referring to being inside the aircraft, while 'on the plane' is used when talking about being on the surface of the aircraft.

Last Updated: March 08, 2024

Use 'in the plane' when you want to indicate that someone or something is inside the aircraft.

Examples:

The passengers in the plane were getting ready for takeoff.
There is limited space in the plane for carry-on luggage.
The children in the plane were excited about the trip.
She felt a bit claustrophobic in the plane.
The crew in the plane prepared for the long flight ahead.

Alternatives:

inside the plane
within the plane
onboard the plane
aboard the plane
within the aircraft

Use 'on the plane' when you want to indicate that someone or something is on the surface of the aircraft.

Examples:

The mechanic was working on the plane's engine.
There was a strange noise coming from the wing on the plane.
She left her book on the plane after the flight.
The pilot was doing a final check on the plane before takeoff.
The logo on the plane was painted in bright colors.

Alternatives:

onboard the plane
aboard the plane
on the aircraft
on the airplane
on the jet

Answer 1

in the plane

This phrase is correct when referring to being inside the aircraft.

Answer 2

on the plane

This phrase is correct when referring to being on the surface of the aircraft.

"in the plane" vs "on the plane"

in the plane

on the plane

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