How to Make a Paper Airplane That Flies Far: The Sentinel

Paper airplanes are a classic childhood toy that can bring hours of fun. But have you ever wondered how to make one that flies really far? The Sentinel is a paper airplane design known for its long flight distances and ease of construction. This guide will walk you through the steps of folding a Sentinel, providing clear instructions and tips for success.

Materials

• A single sheet of standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper (letter size)

Instructions

1. Fold in Half: Start by folding the paper in half lengthwise, creasing firmly along the fold line. This creates a long rectangle.
2. Fold the Top Corners: Now, fold down the top two corners of the paper, bringing them to the center fold line. You'll have two triangles at the top.
3. Fold the Top Edge: Fold the top edge of the paper down, meeting the bottom edge of the two triangles you just folded. This creates a smaller rectangle at the top.
4. Fold in Half Again: Fold the entire paper in half again, along the original fold line. This creates a long, narrow shape.
5. Fold the Wings: Now, fold down the top two corners of the paper, bringing them to the center fold line. These are the wings of your airplane.
6. Bend the Wings: Gently bend the wings upwards, giving them a slight curve. This will help the airplane glide better.
7. Fold the Tail: Fold the back edge of the paper up, creating a small tail fin. You can adjust the size of the tail to fine-tune the airplane's flight.

Tips for Success

• Use a Sharp Crease: Make sure your folds are crisp and sharp. This will help the airplane maintain its shape in flight.
• Experiment with Paper: Different types of paper will affect the flight of your airplane. Try experimenting with different weights and textures to see what works best.
• Practice Your Launch: The way you launch your airplane will greatly impact its flight distance. Try a gentle underhand toss with a slight upward angle.
• Adjust the Design: Don't be afraid to tweak the design of your Sentinel. You can adjust the wing angle, tail size, and even add small weights to the nose to see how it affects the flight.

Conclusion

The Sentinel is a simple yet effective paper airplane design that can fly surprisingly far. With a little practice and experimentation, you can achieve amazing flight distances and enjoy hours of fun. So grab a sheet of paper, follow these instructions, and get ready to launch your very own Sentinel!