Final answer:
The term for planes engaging in combat in the air is 'dogfight,' which is a type of aerial combat.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term used for planes shooting each other in the air is known as a dogfight. Dogfights are a form of aerial combat where pilots maneuver and shoot down enemy aircraft in close proximity. During major conflicts like World War I and World War II, skilled pilots who were able to shoot down enemy planes became known as "aces."
These aces were celebrated for their bravery and combat skills in the skies. Technological advancements, such as the development of long-range escort fighters during World War II, significantly changed air combat and strategy.
Additionally, the Battle of Britain remains one of the most notable examples of an aerial battle where radar technology played a crucial role in the Royal Air Force's ability to thwart a German invasion.