What is a supersonic airplane?

A supersonic airplane is shaped quite differently than a regular, “subsonic” plane, or commercial plane. It is usually shaped like a dart, with a long pointed nose and wings that swing back and hug the plane body. This slim shape causes less friction as it races through the air. The close-set wings also stay within the shock waves the plane creates, which is necessary to maintain control of the aircraft. While the special wings of supersonic planes don’t provide as much lift as those of regular planes, the aircraft get the lift they need for takeoffs and landings by traveling at very high speeds.