Which type of aircraft typically features a high aspect ratio wing?

A high aspect ratio wing is characterized by a long span relative to its chord length. This design is primarily utilized to improve aerodynamic efficiency, particularly in terms of reducing induced drag.

Gliders are specifically engineered to maximize lift while minimizing drag during flight, making a high aspect ratio wing particularly advantageous. This enables them to achieve greater altitude and distance without the need for propulsion. The efficiency of such wings is crucial for gliders, as their primary function relies heavily on sustaining flight through buoyancy and thermal currents rather than engine thrust.

While fighter jets and bombers tend to have lower aspect ratio wings to enhance maneuverability and performance in combat situations, commercial airliners generally feature a moderate aspect ratio, balancing between efficiency and structural requirements for carrying heavy loads. Gliders, however, prioritize aerodynamics above all, which is why the high aspect ratio wing is a quintessential feature of their design.