Aerospace Engineering

Originally introduced 2011 with All Nippon Airways, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner has become one of the most popular mid-size jets used by commercial airlines. Even if you’ve seen this jet — or even flown in one — though, there are … Read More

It’s not uncommon for modern-day airplanes — especially larger commercial airplanes — to have an autopilot system. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the mechanics behind autopilot systems, you’re probably well aware of their fundamental purpose: to control the airplane without … Read More

When you look up the sky on a clear and sunny day, you may see white smoke trails left behind by passing airplanes. Most people have seen these white smoke trails — they’ve become synonymous with airplanes. Unless you’re familiar … Read More

The next time you fly, look outside at the airport’s tarmac and you’ll probably discover that most of the airplanes waiting to take off have a white frame. Although there are exceptions, white is the predominant color in which airplane … Read More

Although there are exceptions, most commercial jets fly at around 28,000 to 35,000 feet. Being that Earth’s troposphere is between 23,000 and 65,000 feet — depending on the season and latitude, at least — this means that commercial jets are … Read More

Commercial airplanes today use complex control systems consisting of hundreds of dials, knobs, buttons, switches, levers and more. Whether it’s a short flight across state lines of an intercontinental flight to the opposite side of the world, pilots must engage … Read More

From the Airbus A330 to the Boeing 787, practically all commercial aircraft are manufactured with riveted joints instead of welded joints. With riveted joints, two components are connected using a fastener known as a rivet. There are different types of … Read More

Ground forces are just one tool used to prevent, control and extinguish wildfires. While essential to firefighting operations, air forces are equally as important. It’s not uncommon for states and municipalities to use airplanes to fight wildfires. Unless you’re familiar … Read More

Boeing is known throughout the world for its iconic commercial jets, including the 747, 777 and 787. The U.S.-based company designs and manufacturers aircraft that are sold to commercial airlines as well as private and government organizations alike. But while … Read More