When you board an aircraft for a flight, you might not think much about the complex systems that ensure safe takeoffs and landings. This includes the landing gear assembly, an essential component of an aircraft that allows it to take off, land, and taxi on a runway. In this blog, we will briefly discuss the landing gear system, its components, and its role in aviation to allow you to have a better understanding of its function and importance.

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Aircraft propellers, resembling the blades of an enormous screw, stand as paramount mechanisms for thrust generation in aviation. In contrast to jet engines, which employ the ejection of high-speed gasses for propulsion, propeller-driven aircraft rely on the fundamental principles of aerodynamics to produce thrust.

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In the world of technology and automation, sensors and actuators play crucial roles in gathering information and executing actions. Overall, these hardware devices are essential components in various systems, ranging from industrial machinery to everyday consumer electronics. While both sensors and actuators contribute to the functionality of these systems, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. In this article, we will delve into the dissimilarities between sensors and actuators, exploring their functions, types, and applications.
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From lighting systems to the flight display, engine battery, and so much more, electrical devices have become a ubiquitous part of the modern aviation industry. As with any key components on board, it is important that these devices are kept in great working condition for as long as possible. As such, phase monitors are commonly used to protect many of the electrical systems from overvoltage, undervoltage, phase loss, and more. Working in conjunction with surge protectors, they can detect harmful conditions within electrical networks and shut off power to prevent lasting damage.

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Combustion engines have been used on aircraft ever since the Wright brothers' first flight in 1903. Though their design has changed over the years, all combustion engines still work by burning a mixture of fuel and air to generate thrust. While the fuel is loaded on the plane already at the right consistency for use, the air which the engine collects needs to first be compressed. To use only as much fuel as necessary, airplane combustion engines rely on high powered compressors which condense the air they take in, making for an oxygen-rich fuel-air mixture that can be ignited with ease. Though there are many different compressors to choose from, most can be divided into two major categories: centrifugal and axial.

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Aircraft are made from millions of individual items, and as knowledge is key, it is best that pilots familiarize themselves with how various systems and assemblies function on board the vehicle. In particular, as the function of engine mechanics may only be briefly reviewed in rudimentary flight training, a pilot should still take the time to study various aircraft engines and the parts that construct them; in the future event regarding engine issues while in the air, this information can aid pilots in determining the best course of action.

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Most rotating instruments in systems across various industries rely on shafts to generate their rotational motion. One common application for shafts are in electric motors; an electric motor shaft is a centrally located cylindrical part that protrudes from the motor and housing. Operating in relation to speed and torque, the shaft functions to transfer energy from the motor to its intended use. With various factors to consider when procuring a motor shaft for your specific applications, this blog will offer an overview of the construction and characteristics of these vital part types.

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In the field of aviation, hydraulics and their related systems play a vital role in the functionality of aircraft. In fact, aviation hydraulic systems are responsible for helping planes take off, fly, and land. While there are two different systems that help control these functions, those of which are pneumatic or hydraulic, hydraulic systems are more popular because they are increasingly reliable

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Constant friction between moving parts can generate heat that can damage internal structures and components. As bearings play a vital role in separating moving parts, minimizing friction, and preventing ongoing wear and tear, they necessitate ample lubrication. For this reason, lubricants are incredibly important to the functionality of applications that have bearings installed. Lubricants reduce corrosion and protect against contaminants that could cause immeasurable damage to bearings. Paired with regular inspection and maintenance, it is possible to improve the reliability of these tiny components.

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The architecture of an aircraft is extremely dynamic, with several components moving in unison to produce stable and comfortable flight. Any devices involved in the aircraft's aerodynamics are labeled as flight control surfaces, and in this category, there are many. Falling under the primary control surface category are elements such as the ailerons, elevators, and rudder. Meanwhile, secondary control surfaces include spoilers, slats, and air brakes. While each of these aerodynamic devices plays a critical role in facilitating flight, this blog will focus on flaps, which serve several objectives and come in a variety of designs.

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When we think of the things we need to fly, we usually think of the engine. Afterall, combustion is what powers the plane. So, it’s easy to fixate on the engine and neglect the alternator. But, without the alternator, we don’t have access to our digital nav/com radios, integrated GPS, multifunction flight displays, and so on.  
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Airplanes need a reliable shock absorption method while landing, particularly on rough or uneven terrain. Aircraft landing gear provides needed structural support to the aircraft during landing, takeoff, or taxiing. Conventional landing gears are of two types: fixed and retractable. While fixed landing gear is low maintenance and easy to use, retractable landing gear bolsters efficiency because it reduces aircraft drag while increasing cruising speeds. Retractable gear systems can be operated electrically, hydraulically, manually, or through a hybrid combination of electric and hydraulic systems. However, managing retractable gear systems requires adherence to a standard set of instructions, which will be explained in this blog.

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Aircraft corrosion is a persistent problem for aircraft operators. Corrosion deteriorates the aircraft structure and its internal components, making it dangerous to operate and expensive to repair. More than that, there is no real way of reversing the effects of corrosion, which can make aircraft inoperable in just a matter of years.

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Piston rings are of undeniable utilitarian significance in the design of an internal combustion engine of an aircraft. Broadly speaking, a piston ring is a metallic split ring attached to a piston’s outer diameter. Piston rings are designed to combat gas pressure leaks from the combustion chamber of an aircraft while limiting the seepage of oil to a minimum at the same time. Piston rings are made to fit into the piston grooves of an assembly, but spring out to press against the cylinder walls with proper lubrication. In conditions of optimum lubrication, these rings form an effective gas seal. With this information in mind, let us now learn more about the working of piston rings.
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In an effort to meet growing environmental concerns while also bolstering the performance of vehicles, many automakers have set a major focus on how they can engineer engines capable of creating as much power as possible from the least amount of fuel. To achieve this, manufacturers have begun to utilize what are known as superchargers and turbochargers, both of which increase the amount of air that is compressed and mixed with fuel to achieve the same power output of a big engine while maintaining a small, efficient design. For you to better understand their importance and benefits, we will provide a brief overview of superchargers and turbochargers in this blog.

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Many aircraft feature propeller assemblies that are used to generate the thrust necessary for flight, and it can be highly beneficial to understand how such processes work. Just like the wings on each side of the fuselage, propellers operate on the principle of lift, manipulating the flow of air to adjust air pressure for forward propulsion. In this blog, we will discuss propellers in more detail, allowing you to have a better understanding of their functionality and the method in which thrust is produced.

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Aviation engineers are constantly looking for ways to push the envelope regarding aircraft design and technology. Clearly, much progress in aviation technology has been made over the past 100 years, but it was not without challenges. Since aviation is one of the most well-known high-reliability industries, every design change and invention is subject to considerable scrutiny. While noteworthy strides are being made in many domains of aviation engineering, this blog will focus on the challenges engineers face in designing the next generation of airframes.
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Automotive relays are switches that turn electrical circuits on and off. They come in different shapes, sizes, and can be found in cars, gas valves, alarm systems, and more. Relays are typically used to enable a low amperage circuit to switch a high amperage circuit on or off. Relays can also be used to switch multiple things at the same time with the use of one output. When a single output is connected to multiple relays, you are able to simultaneously open continuity and/or close continuity. In this blog, we will be covering how automotive relays work and their circuit design to better understand these helpful devices.

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In the world of aviation and aircraft safety, some things never change. Aircraft components and hardware are submitted to serious processing standards in order to ensure that aviation is safer and fuel efficient. Poor safety management in any aspect of air transportation can not only damage the aircraft itself, but result in the loss of valuable human life. While the wings, tail, body, landing gear, and engine are integral to the safety and function of the aircraft, for this blog we will be exploring the vital role that aircraft fasteners play in the area of aviation.

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From the recycling of decommissioned aircraft to the development of more green technologies, there have been many initiatives to decrease the environmental impact of aircraft operations across the globe. One major way in which operators seek to decrease their carbon footprint is through the use of more sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), those of which are known to be low in carbon. SAF fuels are typically manufactured with the use of renewable biomass and waste resources, allowing for similar performance as compared to petroleum-based jet fuel while effectively cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions. In this blog, we will discuss sustainable aviation fuels, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the various compounds and mixtures being used to mitigate carbon emissions from aircraft in operation.

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Fiber optics have rapidly been revolutionizing telecommunications and data transfer applications, achieving speeds, transfer rates, and loss rates that far surpass conventional copper wiring. Rather than using the traditional method of data transfer which is carried out through the relay of electrical signals, fiber optic cable and cable connector parts utilize pulses of light for sending data across distances. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of fiber optic cables and common types, allowing you to better understand the benefits of such technologies.

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As the aviation industry continues its push towards carbon neutrality and eco-friendly operations, manufacturers across the globe are looking to find ways in which aircraft can take advantage of both hybrid and electric systems. While the global demand for commercial transportation maintains steady growth as the world becomes more interconnected, countries such as the United Kingdom have made pledges to reach carbon neutrality in the coming decades. As these environmental mandates continue to be proposed by various major parties of the global aviation industry, original equipment manufacturers (OEM) have begun initiatives to rethink the design of certain aspects of aircraft construction.

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In our modern society, we have become very dependent on a vast array of electronics. From the lights that illuminate our buildings to the cell phones that we communicate long distance with, there are many electronics that we rely on every day. In order for all electronics to properly provide us with the functionalities that we’ve grown to expect from them, they depend upon an assembly of wires, cables, and connectors that all work together to establish electrical circuits. To help you better understand how countless electronics are designed, we will discuss wires, cables, and connectors in more detail as well as provide a brief overview of their common types.

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Lithium-ion batteries have many advantages over their lead-acid counterparts. For example, they are lighter, more efficient, charge faster, and have a longer lifespan. However, they are also susceptible to many conditions that can damage the battery pack. To avoid these conditions, lithium-ion batteries utilize a battery management system (BMS). A BMS could be considered the brain of a battery pack. It is a set of electronics that monitors and manages all aspects of the battery’s performance and, more importantly, prevents the battery from operating beyond its safety margins.

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full authority digital engine control (FADEC) is a system consisting of a digital computer, known as an electronic engine controller (EEC) or engine control unit (ECU), and its related components that control all aspects of an aircraft’s engine performance. FADECs are used in both piston and jet engines. In this blog, we will discuss FADEC’s functions and advantages in detail.

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Throttle hold is a flight mode for remote control (RC) aircraft. It is controlled by the throttle hold switch which, when activated, controls the throttle at a pre-set percentage of engine idle, regardless of the collective pitch stick position. It is used to practice autorotations, and as a safety measure to help prevent accidental spool up, wherein the rotors of the helicopter begin rotating unexpectedly. Throttle hold can also help minimize damage after a crash. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of throttle hold.

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The thrust management system (TMS) is a part of the aircraft’s Flight Management System, and it allows for pilots to set computerized control over throttle. Similar to the cruise control systems commonly found in automobiles, such devices can increase the efficiency of flight operations for the benefit of pilots. Furthermore, such systems may also be advantageous for safety reasons as well, making them useful for pilots and aircraft. In this blog, we will discuss thrust management systems, allowing you to better understand how they are used and what functions they can provide. 

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The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted nearly every industry around the world. Aviation was no different, and, in fact, was one of the most harshly affected industries of all. Flights were canceled, traveled restrictions were imposed, and companies felt the effect. This has led to two main problems: a significant drop in fuel demand & fuel price, and the problem of storing all the grounded aircraft. Within the field of aviation, the jet fuel market has been by far the hardest hit. Although a vaccine is on the horizon, it is expected that the demand for jet fuel will remain low into the near future. As low demand for flights leaves many companies struggling to survive, the aviation jet fuel market could take years to recover....

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While aircraft contain a plethora of advanced technologies and systems that have made flight one of the safest methods of traveling by far, there are still incidents in which they face tragic accidents. Across most accidents that occur within the commercial aviation sector, a majority are due to human error. Human error can cause many types of accidents, ranging from a miscalculation by a pilot to incorrect directions provided by an air traffic controller. As one of the three primary causes of accidents, incorrect or poor aircraft maintenance can result in a variety of issues that can lead to dangerous situations. On top of presenting a safety risk, negligent maintenance can also cause delays, financial burdens, and other issues for the airline or aircraft operator. As such, being more on top of maintenance scheduling and ensuring that procedures are carried out correctly is paramount to the safety of an aircraft.

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As airports continue to pop up across the globe and the aviation industry expands, aircraft noise pollution remains an ever present problem for much of the worldwide population and wildlife. While the amount of noise that aircraft make has dramatically decreased over the past ten years, it still remains a pressing problem that the aerospace industry is hard at work to resolve. From changing flight management to creating newer technologies, there are many avenues that are being explored to assist in creating more quiet environments for the benefit of all. In this blog, we will discuss some of the major ways that the industry is combating noise pollution, allowing you to better understand the future projection of aircraft and aviation management.

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Since the advent of aircraft in 1903, an astounding number of innovations have been made to engines, performance, and more. While there are a number of aircraft that serve diverse applications ranging from civil to defense roles, many aircraft still utilize similar engines to generate propulsion. Across engine types, two of the most common engines are the radial and turbine engine, and each provides their own unique benefits that cater to varying needs. In this blog, we will provide an overview of the radial and turbine engine, as well as discuss their primary differences to allow you to have a better understanding of each engine type.

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Most people have used autopilot in a car and feel comfortable with using it. When discussing aircraft, however, many people might cringe at the thought of an aircraft pilot using autopilot. However, what many people do not know is that it is quite normal for technologically advanced planes, particularly bigger business aircraft to have an autopilot framework. Regardless of whether you're new to the mechanics behind autopilot frameworks, you're likely very much aware of the important reasons for pilots to choose to use an autopilot system. They do it to control the plane with practically zero requirement for human navigation. It's an inventive and convenient element that takes a portion of the weight off the pilots' shoulders. With the autopilot turned on, pilots can concentrate on different parts of the flight, for example, observing climate, direction and that's just the beginning. For more information on how the autopilot system works and how it benefits the pilot and cabin crew, read on below.

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Aluminum was once the primary material used in aerospace applications. However, in modern jet aircraft, it accounts for just 20% of the construction. However, because of the demand for lighter weight aircraft, composite materials such as carbon-reinforced polymers and honeycomb materials continue to increase in usage across the modern aerospace and aviation industries. Further requirements such as the need to withstand high temperatures, pressures, and corrosion have paved the way for other materials once considered impossible for use in aerospace. One such material is stainless steel, which has seen increased usage in newer aircraft components.This blog will explain uses of and differences between aluminum and stainless steel in modern aircraft.

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Electric airplanes could change the manner in which we travel. Along with a significant decrease of CO2, electric aircraft would also bring about a decrease in sound contamination, and with no requirement for air terminal runways, we'll see a lot increasingly downtown air terminals, combined with less flying limitations. Electric planes truly can possibly change the manner in which we work, travel, and live. For example, numerous individuals need to live in the open country, however are denied by an absence of business. Electric aviation would empower them to drive, by means of air, to neighborhood urban communities for work. Inside urban areas themselves, it would encourage short excursions utilizing 4-6 seat taxi planes – making it simple to rapidly make a trip from south to north London, or from San Francisco to Palo Alto, for instance.
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Aircraft hangars are just as common as aircraft themselves. Anywhere you see aircraft, odds are there is a hangar not too far away. Apart from storage, hangars serve a crucial purpose in the aviation industry: maintenance. Maintenance hangars differ significantly from a line or storage hangar. Traditional hangars have a simple function: to house aircraft safely and securely. On the other hand, maintenance hangars are broad, wide-open arenas with the lone purpose of conducting major maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) on aircraft....

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In our current day, much of our daily activities and livelihoods depend on electricity and electric technology. While many of these components are very beneficial to us, the electricity that powers them can be very volatile and dangerous. As electricity can damage components and harm people, it is important to implement protection to ensure that such occurrences can be avoided or prevented altogether. With insulating material, such protection can be achieved and is widely used across all types of electronics and components that interact with electricity...

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Landing gear is an integral part of any aircraft, and perhaps the most important part of landing gear is the struts. The struts are the piece of equipment that bears the brunt of the force an aircraft experiences when it touches back down on ground after flight. Struts ensure that even a rough landing doesn’t cause serious damage to your entire plane. There are four common types of landing gear struts: rigid struts, springs steel struts, bungee cord struts, and shock or oleo struts...

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The modern commercial aircraft is a grand sized, heavy vehicle that requires a tremendous amount of power to successfully transport passengers over long distances. Currently, the method in which aircraft are able to achieve efficient and sustained flight is through propulsion systems such as the gas turbine jet engine. With an engine and the various aircraft turbine engine components within, passenger planes are able to overcome the forces of gravity and provide the air travel that we know and rely on today. In this blog, we will discuss what a turbine engine is, and how the internal jet engine parts work together to provide thrust.

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Pneumatic systems are an apparatus that allows for the transmission and control of energy through the use of sealed, compressed air. They function similarly to hydraulic systems, using air in lieu of water. In regards to aircraft, pneumatic systems often aid with processes such as cabin pressurization, air conditioning, initiating main engines, pressurizing fuel tanks, and much more. While these systems have long served a multitude of commercial aircraft, new electric technology has begun to emerge, changing the playing field....

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Cosmic ionizing radiation is a form of ionizing radiation that comes from outer space. A very small amount of this radiation reaches the earth and at flight altitudes, passengers and crew members are exposed to higher levels of this radiation. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) inform the public that ionizing radiation may cause cancer in humans and is also known to cause reproductive problems such as miscarriages and birth defects.

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The nature of air travel means that aircraft have to be able to withstand a myriad of conditions both light and extreme. Something no aircraft wants to go up against is lightning, but air travelers expect a hassle-free experience, and delays or cancellations are only an option in the most extreme conditions. Lightning, while not ideal, is not necessarily cause for grounding an aircraft. Instead, aircraft manufacturers take measures to protect their machinery from the elements.....

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If you’ve ever boarded an airplane from outside the terminal via a ladder, you might have been close enough to see the engines of the plane. Upon closer inspection, you might notice that at the center of the engine point is a depiction of a spiral, which spins and eventually turns into a white spinning symbol once the engines start spinning at full speed. Sometimes the symbol doesn’t resemble a spiral, rather it looks like a comma, or a typhoon symbol, or even a wobbly crescent. Sometimes you’ll see that there is no symbol at the center of the spiral. But what significance do these symbols, if present, have?

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From takeoff to landing, all aircraft require some sort of electrical power for important functions such as navigation, intercoms, COM and NAV radios, and more. With in-flight entertainment and increasingly modernized systems, this need for electricity is ever more present. To get power, aircraft often use electric power generation through generators and alternators. Both of these systems produce power for the aircraft but differ in method, as well as have various benefits and drawbacks when compared to each other.

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The aircraft electrical system is a network of components that transmit, distribute, and store electrical energy. Most modern aircraft have a 28 volt direct current electrical system, which typically consists of a battery, the master switch, alternator, an ammeter and a loadmeter,. Through the electrical system, the aircraft’s taxi lights, landing lights, radio equipment, interior cabin lights and other equipment are supplied with power. For a detailed look at some of the important components and the roles they play, read below:

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In aviation, each piece of machinery has an important role. Parts need to be tough and dependable to put up with the rigors of air travel. However, no matter how well-crafted a piece is, it will eventually deteriorate. Connectors are fundamental to the successful operation of an aircraft. They are found in the airframe, cabin interior, navigation tools, and a variety of other important areas. Here are a few ways connectors fail and measures you can take to prevent it.

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Atmospheric density is a serious concern for weather, guiding wind patterns and rainfall, but it can also seriously affect flight conditions. Takeoff, climbing, and landing performances and parameters all change depending on atmospheric density, and failing to recognize these changes can lead to serious accidents. Thus, let’s take a look at what exactly density altitude using density indicator , and how it affects performance....

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Unlike car drivers, pilots don’t wait for the change oil light to pop up on the dashboard before they change the engine oil. On average, aircraft oil is changed after every 10 hours of flight time. When the time comes, there are a few key steps that should be followed so as not to cause damage to the engine....

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Many instruments exist for monitoring navigation and outside atmospheric conditions on aircraft. However, it’s just as vital to monitor the interior conditions of the aircraft, so aircraft mount numerous sensors to monitor their critical systems....

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One of the greatest innovations that aviation technology has made in modernizing all-weather capabilities is deicing equipment. Aircraft that do not operate in regions that freeze over can still face ice build-up as a potential issue, due to the altitude at which they operate. Ice forming along wings, aircraft propellers, and control surfaces can severely impact an airplane’s handling characteristics and performance, making deicing equipment an integral part of maintaining an aircraft’s safety....

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The landing gear of an aircraft supports the entire weight of a vehicle during landing and ground operations. The components are primarily attached to the actual structure of the aircraft and has different applications for each part. Wheels are most commonly associated with aircraft landing gear, however, there are many other facets involved. Modern landing gear technology wouldn’t be possible if shock absorbing equipment didn’t exist, making shock absorption a crucial aspect of both landing and takeoff....

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When frigid temperatures hit the north-central and north-eastern United States earlier this year, hundreds of flights were grounded or canceled due to the extreme weather. And that can make you wonder, what exactly makes cold weather so difficult for commercial flight? Just a hint, the problem is not what it seems....

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There's a strong tendency to compare aviation to the automotive industry. But, the list of similarities is short. Aircraft and automobiles couldn’t be any more different. For example, if a car engine breaks down in the middle of your commute, you can just pull over and call a tow truck or try to fix it yourself, but you can’t do that when an airplane’s engine fails....

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From snow-capped mountains and forests of tall redwoods to scorching deserts and beautiful beaches, California is known for its beautiful and diverse landscapes. And while driving through them can be a fun experience, flying is truly the best way to see it all. But, once you’ve decided to travel by air, you’ve now got to choose how: fixed wing or rotary wing?

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In recent years, there’s been an increase in flight and aviation across the board. People are flying more than ever. They’re also owning their own private aircraft more than ever. But before purchasing, it’s important to understand what kind of aircraft to choose. A fixed-wing or a rotary wing? What’s the difference? Well, the biggest difference is in the way they can fly....

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Have you ever looked up and noticed those long, white streaks across the blue sky? Those are vapor trails caused by jet engines. Jet engines burn fuel using the air, releasing energy and powering the plane; this is a process called combustion. These engines are sometimes referred to as gas turbines because they bring fuel in through a windmill-like wheel, also known as a turbine, and expel hot gas....

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Listed below are quick over views of 6 key components of a modern aircraft. The components mentioned in this article will be the wings, empennage, powerplant, landing gear, aircraft frame and fuselage. All of which are extremely important in making sure that the aircraft flies properly.

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An aircraft propeller is more complex than an individual would think. Surprisingly, propellers do not exist solely to move aircrafts, they have outside uses. There are several different types of aircraft propellers all varying in design and material. This article will discuss the similarities and differences between all the different propellers the world has to offer.

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Textron’s company, Bell Helicopter releases their 407GXi model aircraft to the public. The introduction took place at the Heli Expo 2018 which is held at in Las Vegas, Nevada and is a four-day long event commencing on the 26th of February though the 1st of March. The Aircraft has already been undergoing tests and has been certified by Transport Canada to be ready for the start of their deliveries beginning in Spring of 2018....

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In recent times, it is not very common to hear about Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) producing doubts over aircraft parts safety produced by companies complying to a FAA-issued Parts Manufacturing Approval (PMA). In the past, there was a time when OEMs looked down on PMA parts produced to compete with their products. Their comments usually focused on safety claims and abuse of OEM warranties.

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World renowned engine company, Rolls Royce has been undergoing unexpected charges through several programs that they have been involved with. Primary issues concerning technical issues with engines on Airbus A380 and Boeing’s 787 aircrafts.

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