Technological Impacts on Aerospace and In-Flight Communications
The recent economic downturn worldwide, is causing a turbulence in the aviation sector, which has made the aerospace industry turn to technology for a bailout. The fear of a recession is forcing businesses to become more efficient and is making them strive harder towards providing attractive services to its customers and thus gain a competitive edge. Despite the downturn, technology suppliers still see rewarding opportunities in this industry.
There are several instances of how technology is helping the aviation sector to become more efficient and how it is facilitating better cost-effectiveness. Rising oil prices and falling demand for air transport, have led to a greater need for smaller, affordable planes, and more fuel-efficient aircrafts. Eclipse Aviation (New Mexico), and the Honda Motor Company (Japan), among others, have been able to successfully test micro jets, which are more affordable than commercial jets for a small group of business travelers. While on one hand, airlines companies around the world are delaying or cancelling large aircraft orders due to their financial difficulties, on the other hand, major aircraft manufacturers are expecting a boost in orders for fuel-efficient aircrafts.