They used a crane in Star Wars, and actually had to open up the roof of the soundstage to do it. (One of my favorite practical shots in the movie.) They did use forklifts for the snowspeeders lifting off in ESB.

I’m sure the launch tube was invented in post production, so probably no art. Surprised Lucas didn’t invent a new shot for the SE of the ships coming out of the temple. Instead, they pasted on CGI ships passing way too close to rebel scout guy on a stick, who doesn’t react to they are buzzing him.