NASA Says SpaceX and Boeing Outsourcing Will Save $30 Billion

NASA is expecting to save some serious dough thanks to its partnerships with SpaceX and Boeing. The government-run space agency recently announced that the partnerships will save it an estimated $20 billion to $30 billion — along with other benefits. … Read More

What Is an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) in Airplanes?

Airplanes consume a substantial amount of energy during flight. Not all of this energy, however, is spent on powering the engines. Airplanes consume energy to power all their electronic devices, including cabin lights, exterior lights, cockpit controls and more. Thankfully, … Read More

Boeing to Restart Manufacturing of 737 MAX

Boeing is expected to restart the manufacturing of its 737 MAX jet by the end of the month, signaling the start of a revival for the company’s once-troubled airliner. The fourth generation of the 737 family, the 737 MAX is … Read More

Horizontal vs Vertical Stabilizers in Airplanes: What’s the Difference?

Stabilizers are an important component of an airplane. They live up to their namesake by “stabilizing” the airplane and, thus, preventing unwanted movement. Whether it’s a commercial jet or a private propeller airplane, most airplanes are designed with stabilizers. There … Read More

FAA to Provide Standardized Training for Pilots

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is preparing to launch a new standardized training program for pilots looking to earn their wings. In recent years, aviation officials have expressed concern over the shortage of pilots. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun, for … Read More

SpaceX to Test Sunshade for Starlink Satellites

SpaceX is preparing to test a new sunshade for its Starlink satellites. Assuming all goes it planned, the new sunshade will make the satellites less visible. While that may sound problematic, it’s actually a good thing because it allows astronomers … Read More

What Is ‘Thrust’ in Airplanes? And How Does It Work?

From small privately owned and operated propeller airplanes to large jet-powered commercial airplanes and military airplanes, all airplanes rely on thrust to travel in the air. It’s created by the engines (or engine), thereby allowing the airplane to move forward. … Read More

What Is a ‘Heavy’ Airplane? Understanding the FAA’s Terminology

In The United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) uses specific terminology to classify airplanes by weight. One of the most classifications for commercial airplanes is “heavy.” Being that all airplanes are heavy, though, the term is somewhat confusing. If … Read More

Airbus Completes First Successful Midair Refueling Test

Airbus has just completed its first successful air-to-air refueling test. When flying long distances, airplanes often need to refuel. This is particularly true in the case of military airplanes, some of which fly multiple consecutive missions before landing. Also known … Read More