How are lifts and thrusts used on an airplane?

Lift and thrust is what enables an airplane to maintain flight. Lift is generated by the wings, and thrust is generated by the engine or propeller. Combined they enable the aircraft to fly. Air currents and up-drafts, on an aircraft that does not have an engine (like a glider), also help generate lift and thrust to keep such an aircraft in the air. However, gliders get into the air by being towed by an airplane, or by a sort of sling-shot.