Technology in Aerospace and Aviation
In a historic event, SpaceX and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) sent astronauts into orbit, making it the first time since 2011 that humans have launched from U.S. soil.
The event paves the way for space tourism, as SpaceX has made agreements to fly tourists on the spacecraft. While the fine details are yet to be fully revealed, it is an exciting time for aerospace!
The successful launch would not have been possible without advancements in technology. For example, SpaceX’s rocket booster used in the launch, the Falcon 9, is reusable. That’s right; it was designed as the world’s first orbital-class reusable rocket to cut down re-flight costs.
As technology develops in the aerospace industry, it also spurs on the aviation industry. Modern advancements in aviation are making their way to exciting new sectors, such as air taxis and electric aircraft. And as these technologies grow, those who repair and inspect such aircraft need to be educated and appropriately trained to maintain them.
A Long Time Coming
The dream of space exploration and flight are not new concepts. Yet, it took years to develop the necessary tools for such achievements to occur. Trial and error were at the forefront of the first heavier-than-air machine to achieve controlled flight with a pilot aboard. It is still necessary for research, development, and planning to move the goalposts of technology further.
NASA has mainly conducted crewless spaceflight programs throughout history. Since the “Space Race” between the Soviet Union and the United States to the rover Curiosity landing on Mars, advancements in technology have challenged us all to think differently about what is possible through flight.
Curiosity transmitted the first pre-recorded message from the surface of Mars back to Earth, a significant achievement for the entire world! The benefits of developing new technology capabilities allow for more achievements such as this – and not just in aerospace.
Aviation Maintenance and AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the aviation market is now expected to grow from $152.4 million in 2018 to $2.2 billion by 2025. AI has changed the way passengers travel, with bag check-in, facial recognition, and fuel optimization that many airlines and airports have adopted over the last few years.
But did you know that it can also assist in how those who maintain aircraft complete their duties? For instance, maintenance delays can cause enormous problems for airlines and cost millions of dollars. Yet Delta Air Lines, with predictive maintenance using AI, cut down maintenance delays by 98% in 2018.
Aircraft Avionics
Avionics are the electric and electronic parts of aircraft. They include radio communications, navigation, weather, and radar. Computer systems that monitor and control flight and primary aircraft functions are also part of avionics.
In our increasingly technological world, aircraft are being outfitted with the latest and greatest in avionics. It takes someone willing to keep up with industry trends in to maintain, repair, inspect, and overhaul such aircraft. In fact, many airline companies have career opportunities that specialize in avionics!
Some of the latest commercial airliners have progressed past sheet metal to a lighter composite, and the steam gauges in the cockpits have been replaced with large touch screens. The value of knowing all components of modern aircraft and keeping pace with new technologies cannot be understated.
Making History
Those who help build, research, study, and implement ideas for new technology are making history. The intricacies of creating something capable of human flight, like the Falcon 9 or an electric aircraft, require the work of many like-minded people. A passion for learning is at the core of making developments in industries such as aviation, robotics, and aerospace. Those who are willing to learn and train are at the forefront of moving these industries forward.
National Aviation Academy is dedicated to training the next generation of aviation mechanics. Our Aviation Maintenance Professional (AMP) program is all about the understanding that next-generation aircraft require technicians who understand the latest technologies. The industry demands it, and our curriculum addresses that need.
Aviation Maintenance Professional training offers a complete curriculum with future demands in aviation in mind. If you are interested in learning more about avionics and the ever-changing aviation industry, please fill out the form below!