# airlift

/ˈɛɹˌɫɪft/ (US) · /ˈeəlɪft/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/airlift
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a large amount of air travel, especially when many people or things are moved by plane at the same time. It is often used when a country needs to send or receive a lot of goods or people quickly.

For teachers: a large-scale movement of people or goods by air, typically involving a significant number of aircraft. Often used in the context of international trade, military operations, or humanitarian aid.

## Examples

- The country experienced a massive airlift of medical supplies.
- After the flood destroyed the local roads, the government organized an airlift to deliver food and water to the stranded residents.
- The sudden increase in international demand for rare minerals led to a massive airlift of cargo planes departing from the regional hub every hour.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.