John T wrote:

I admit it's as much opinion as anything else, but I hesitate to call the
X-43 a plane for the same reason I rather not call the Predator or the
Global Hawk planes. "Plane" brings to mind "humans in the aircraft and at
the controls". I think "aircraft" would be more appropriate - and even NASA
refers to the X-43 as "aircraft" and not "plane".

Odd definition. An airplane is any aircraft that uses the planing principle to fly.
They shove air down with planing surfaces, such as wings. Doesn't matter if they're
manned or not.

George Patterson
Treason is ne'er successful, Sir; what then be the reason? Why, if treason
be successful, Sir, then none dare call it treason.