[P4u1]

While airplanes are catapulted from carriers due to the limited runway length available onboard, it's worth noting that they are fully capable of taking off from standard runways. On the other hand, a glider can only be launched using a catapult or by gliding off a cliff.

[lupusreal]

When you catapult a plane that can't fly, it still can't fly: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Langley_Aerodrome#/media/File:...

The Wright flyer could and frequently did do circles around the field for several minutes after being catapulted. It was no glider.

[ninjagoo]

These days, gliders/sailplanes are commonly launched using winches or tow planes.

Motor gliders self-launch.

[maxlybbert]

The Wright brothers did create a glider ( https://airandspace.si.edu/collection-objects/1900-wright-gl... ). They also created a powered airplane a gasoline engine and propellers ( https://www.nps.gov/articles/wrightflyer.htm ). They also continued to develop their planes after that first flight. I'm amused by the number of people I've met who seem to think that they flew around a little, then stuck everything in the barn and went back to bicycle making.

[tshaddox]

Or into an intense headwind.