What Is a Touch-and-Go Landing?

Have you heard of touch-and-go landings? It’s a common flight maneuver performed by pilots in training. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), commercial pilots need 1,500 hours of training. During their training, many pilots will perform touch-and-go landings to … Read More

5 Facts About Composite Materials in the Aerospace Industry

Airplanes today are no longer made entirely of traditional metals and alloys. Many of them now feature composite materials in their construction. Composite materials are characterized by the use of multiple materials, such as a reinforcing fiber and a matrix. … Read More

Why Airlines Weigh Luggage

Weighing luggage is a common practice in the commercial aviation industry. Whether you’re taking a domestic or international flight, the airline will probably weigh your luggage prior to boarding. If your luggage exceeds the airline’s maximum weight, you may have … Read More

5 Facts About Clevis Pins

Clevis pins are versatile fasteners used in a wide variety of industries, including aerospace. They feature a head and shank — just like a standard bolt. Clevis pins, however, aren’t the same as bolts. Here are 5 facts about clevis … Read More

Why Do Airplanes Have Unusable Fuel?

Airplanes rely on fuel to power their engines. Most airplanes use a specific type of kerosene-based jet fuel, such as Jet A, Jet A1 or Jet B. Kerosene-based fuels such as these have a higher flash point than gasoline, meaning … Read More

5 Ways to Protect Nuts From Vibrations

Vibrations aren’t just a nuisance; they can compromise the integrity of fasteners. When exposed to regular vibrations, for instance, nuts may come loose. They may gradually work their way off the bolts or threaded rods with which they are used. … Read More

What Are Passenger Service Units?

Commercial airliners have evolved over the years to offer passengers a more enjoyable and comfortable experience. In addition to upgraded seats and free in-flight meals, many of them feature Passenger Service Units (PSUs). What are PSUs exactly, and why do … Read More

What Are Power Bits and How Do They Work?

When shopping for driver bits, you may come across power bits. They are available in many of the same drive types as insert bits. Power bits, however, feature a unique design that distinguishes them from all other types of bits. … Read More

How to Choose a Grommet

Grommets offer a simple and effective way to protect parts from friction-related damage. Also known as eyelets, they are commonly used with cables. Rather than running a cable directly over a sharp edge, such as the back of a desk, … Read More