The aviation industry has always been and remains one of the leading industries that is at the forefront of technological advancements, the industry continuously remains adaptive to new technologies that are continuously shaping its future. Emerging technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, unmanned aircraft systems, and the push for hybrid aircraft are a few of the factors that contribute to the advancements, to get insights click here.Â
The continued growth of the industry:Â
Aviation is never stagnant, it continuously develops with new technologies emerging that encompass multiple fields of the industry, not only from pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and biometric authentication in airports. Let’s explore the ways that technology has impacted the industry:Â
Increased efficiency:
New technologies are making the aviation industry more efficient, not only by using more lightweight composite materials which have a resultant effect on reduced fuel consumption and lead to more efficient engines that therefore produce less pollution. Improved air traffic control systems are also making air traffic more efficient and reducing congestion and delays.Â
Better passenger experience:Â
Technology is helping passengers to improve their experience, from advancements such as online check-in and having mobile boarding passes to in-flight entertainment and wifi availability. Not only is this exciting, but virtual and augmented reality technologies are being developed to bring a more enhanced and overall improved in-flight experience.Â
Biometric technology has revolutionized airport security protocols and has streamlined the boarding process significantly, therefore ensuring that passengers no longer have to wait in dreadful long queues. Leading to a better experience for both passengers and staff.Â
Improved safety:Â
Advancements in technology have led to great improvements in the safety of aviation. Such advancements include advanced sensors and computer systems that can monitor an aircraft’s systems in real time and can alert pilots of potential problems. The additional new materials and manufacturing techniques have also added to better safety ensuring that aircraft are stronger and safer as a whole.Â
Autonomous aircraft:Â
Not only are there smaller developments but the industry has also been looking at exploring the potential of autonomous aircraft, which would reduce the need for human pilots and potentially lead to more efficient flights. However, this may only become a reality in a number of years as well as there are still many regulatory and technical hurdles that need to be overcome before fully autonomous flights become a reality.Â
Major players in the aviation industry such as Boeing and Airbus are investing in autonomous aircraft technology. This step is being taken to ensure that a competitive edge is maintained. The regulatory framework however has not yet come to a stage where a single pilot can operate a plane on his or her own, therefore trying to persuade the regulatory bodies for a fully autonomous aircraft may not be that easy.Â
Environmental Impact:Â
As more people become conscious of their footprint, the aviation industry is receiving more and more pressure to reduce its environmental impact, and technology is helping to play a key role in this effort. For example, there have been developments for electric and hybrid electric aircraft that are being developed that could significantly reduce emissions. And development is being given to new fuel-efficient engines and airframe designs are also being explored.Â
3D Printing:
Aerospace and the industry was one of the first industries to adopt 3D printing, and it continues to apply this form of printing for spare parts. This means reduced costs, faster lead times as well as more flexible design and development methods. Interior aircraft elements such as cabin brackets, air vents as well as ducting systems, engine components, and certain nozzles and parts are all able to be 3D printed.Â
In an era where technology is rapidly advancing, the aviation industry is ensuring that they do not fall behind. The advancement of technology is playing an increasingly important role in the future of the aviation industry, with the potential to improve safety, efficiency, and the passenger experience all the while taking into consideration and trying to reduce the environmental impact. Numerous companies are striving to develop and implement the best new and improved systems to ensure that the future and journey ahead is exciting. As technology is advancing, some new challenges and risks are arising that need to be carefully managed.Â
