When I last fueled, it was around $5.50/ Gallon, plus prist (Jet A). Our company has various accounts at different airports we frequent and can get as much as $1.50 off.

Back to lift. Is there not a difference between 'flying' and 'projectile'?

Sure, you may throw a rock and it 'flies' thru the air, but with no control. A missile also flies thru the air, with very little control. Rockets the same. Your comparison to the 'missile with a man in it' F104 is accurate, with enough thrust, you do not need a pressure differential. Aircraft of old, that had very little excess thrust/ power had very large, 'airfoil' shaped wings.

I am no engineer, but I think it is a blend of both principles that achieve flight. With smaller 'GA' aircraft, it is pressure difference as a result of wing shape, with newer business jets, its excess thrust, more efficient wings/ airfoils.

Ok, I think that is my 2 cents. BTW, check out this plane, radical design, excellent speed/ range, and very fuel efficient.


http://www.piaggioaero.com/en/products/aircraft/p180/showcase/showcase.php