What type of engine is primarily used in commercial aircraft?

Commercial aircraft predominantly utilize turbofan engines due to their efficiency, performance, and noise reduction capabilities. Turbofan engines are designed to provide a high thrust-to-weight ratio, which is essential for the long-distance travel typical of commercial aviation. These engines operate by using a large fan to draw in air, compressing it, and then igniting fuel to produce thrust. This design allows for quieter operation compared to turbojets and is more efficient at subsonic speeds, which aligns with the flight profiles of commercial airliners.

Unlike piston engines, which are mainly used in smaller aircraft, turbofan engines are specifically engineered for high-altitude, high-speed flight, making them more suitable for the demands of commercial aviation. Additionally, turbojet engines, while historically significant, are less efficient and noisier than turbofans, making them less popular for modern passenger transport. Rocket engines, on the other hand, are designed for propulsion in space rather than atmospheric flight and are not utilized in commercial air travel. Thus, turbofan engines are the industry standard, balancing performance, efficiency, and passenger comfort effectively.