What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inflight
Example
The inflight entertainment system was not working properly. [inflight: adjective]
Example
The flight attendant provided inflight service with a smile. [inflight: noun]
airborne
Example
The plane was airborne for several hours before landing. [airborne: adjective]
Example
The paratroopers jumped out of the aircraft while it was still airborne. [airborne: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inflight is more commonly used than airborne in the context of commercial flights and air travel. However, airborne is more commonly used in the context of military operations and transport.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inflight and airborne?
Inflight is generally considered more formal than airborne, which has a more casual and colloquial tone. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and audience.