Definition
A monoplane configuration in which a single wing is mounted above the fuselage on struts or cabane supports, with open space between the wing and the fuselage. The pilot and engine sit below the wing rather than within it, giving the wing the appearance of a parasol held over the airplane.
Plain English
An airplane with one wing held above the body on supports, like a sunshade over the cockpit, with a gap between the wing and the fuselage.
Context Anchor
Seen when describing airplane design, especially older light airplanes, homebuilt airplanes, and some early aircraft types.
Derivation
From the French parasol, meaning 'sunshade' (para- 'shield against' + sol 'sun'). The wing sits above the fuselage on supports the way a parasol sits above a person's head, which is exactly what the configuration looks like in profile.
Why Pilots Care
The parasol layout gives the pilot excellent downward visibility and keeps the wing clear of propeller wash and ground spray, which is why it appeared on many early observation aircraft and seaplanes. Recognizing the configuration helps when identifying classic aircraft types and understanding their handling characteristics.
Analogy
Picture a small umbrella held above a person’s head. In a parasol wing airplane, the wing is above the fuselage in a similar way, with supports holding it up.
Intuition Check
“Parasol” does not mean the airplane is used for shade or sun protection. Here it describes where the wing is mounted: above the fuselage, separated from it by supports.
Example Sentence 1
The Pietenpol Air Camper is a classic parasol wing airplane, with its single wing mounted on struts well above the open cockpit.
Example Sentence 2
Many early observation planes used a parasol wing to give the pilot an unobstructed downward view.