Turbulence is one of the most common fears that people have when flying. It is the feeling of the plane shaking or bouncing around while in the air. Turbulence is caused by the movement of air currents in the atmosphere, and it can be caused by a variety of factors such as weather conditions, jet streams, and even the shape of the terrain below.

While turbulence can be unsettling, it is important to remember that it is a normal part of flying. Pilots are trained to handle turbulence and are experts at navigating through it safely. In fact, planes are designed to withstand even the most severe turbulence, so there is no need to worry about the safety of the aircraft.

That being said, there are different types of turbulence that can affect the aircraft differently. The most common type is called “light turbulence,” which feels like a slight bump or jolt. This type of turbulence is generally not dangerous and is often experienced during takeoff and landing.

“Moderate turbulence” is more intense and can cause objects to shift around in the cabin. This type of turbulence can be uncomfortable for passengers, but it is still not a safety concern for the aircraft.

“Severe turbulence” is the most intense type of turbulence and can be frightening for passengers. It can cause the aircraft to drop suddenly or violently, and objects in the cabin can become airborne. However, even in severe turbulence, the aircraft is still designed to withstand the forces and will not be in danger of crashing.

In conclusion, while turbulence can be scary, it is a normal part of flying and poses no danger to the safety of the aircraft. Pilots are trained to handle turbulence and will do everything in their power to ensure a smooth and safe flight. So the next time you experience turbulence while flying, rest assured that you are in good hands and there is nothing to fear.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbulence

https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/aerospace/

Validation Flight Satisfies the Cold Weather Operational Capability Needs for Nordic Countries

SAN DIEGO (Newswire.com) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) successfully performed Cold Weather Validation (CWV) using a company-owned MQ-9B SkyGuardian^® Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) in late Jan./early Feb. 2023, adding to the cold weather experience of the MQ-9 family of systems. The system’s ground servicing actions, maneuvers, and flights were based out of GA-ASI’s Flight Test and Training Center (FTTC) in Grand Forks, N.D. SkyGuardian is being proposed to multiple Nordic countries for their Defence and Security needs. The CWV flight test widens and accelerates the global operational implementation for SkyGuardian, especially for countries that need to operate in cold conditions. 

To prepare for the CWV, SkyGuardian was put in a “cold soak” that kept the aircraft at a temperature well below -21°C/-5°F for 12 hours, then prepared for ground maneuvers and flight through a de-icing process using de-icing and anti-icing fluids. In a second scenario, SkyGuardian transitioned from a climate-controlled hangar to engine start and system checks under basic cold conditions (temperature below -21°C/ -5°F ambient air). For the first flight, the outside temperature was below -21°C/-5°F. All scenarios were successfully and consistently conducted in impressive time, relying on standard de-icing and anti-icing procedures, fluids, and support equipment, a testament to the systems’ high readiness and responsiveness. 

“Among the many transformative features of our MQ-9B line of RPA is the aircraft’s ability to perform in extreme temperatures,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “We welcome the cold weather operational capability requirements from Nordic countries, as the MQ-9B is built for all-weather global missions, and we’re thrilled to have MQ-9B perform so impressively under these demanding cold conditions. The CWV, coupled with our recent Low Earth Orbit (LEO) SATCOM flight tests, demonstrate how our aircraft can successfully perform missions in the Arctic region, which is becoming a clear security priority for NORAD and NATO.”

GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian^® are revolutionizing the long-endurance RPAS market by providing all-weather capability and certification, with full compliance with STANAG-4671 (NATO UAS airworthiness standard). This feature, along with our operationally proven, collision-avoidance radar, enables flexible operations in civil airspace.

In addition to the Nordic countries, SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian have garnered significant interest from customers throughout the world. The UK Ministry of Defence selected MQ-9B SkyGuardian for its Protector program, and the Belgian Ministry of Defense signed a contract for SkyGuardian. MQ-9B have also been leased by the Japan Coast Guard. 

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator^® RPA series and the Lynx^® Multi-mode Radar. With more than seven million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike. The company also produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Avenger, Lynx, Predator SeaGuardian and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. 

Source: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Boom is joined by North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and Senate Leader Phil Berger at groundbreaking event in Greensboro, NC Overture airliner on track to enter production in 2024

GREENSBORO, NC and DENVER – Boom Supersonic, the company building the world’s fastest airliner, kicked off construction of its Overture Superfactory today in Greensboro, North Carolina. The Overture Superfactory is a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located on a 62-acre campus at the Piedmont Triad International Airport. This site will house the final assembly line, as well as test facility, and customer delivery center for Boom’s flagship supersonic airliner, Overture.

“Today’s groundbreaking for the Overture Superfactory represents a significant step forward in building sustainable and accessible supersonic travel for the world,” said Kathy Savitt, President of Boom Supersonic. “This milestone is a shared one and we are deeply appreciative of the input, leadership, and support of the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority, local community, and the state of North Carolina.”

By 2032, Boom will hire more than 2,400 workers at the Superfactory, and recruiting is already underway. North Carolina economists estimate that the full Boom manufacturing program will grow the state’s economy by at least $32.3 billion over 20 years. In addition to Boom’s job creation in the state, the company is creating over 200 internships for students in North Carolina public universities, community colleges, and trade schools to build the next generation of supersonic workers.

“Building on our legacy of ‘First in Flight,’ North Carolina is ready to partner with Boom Supersonic in leading the way to a fast and clean aviation future,” North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper said. “Our economy is taking flight with a talented workforce and strong infrastructure ready for these new, good-paying jobs in innovation and aerospace.”

Boom selected North Carolina as the site for Overture aircraft manufacturing because of its large skilled talent pool, access to exceptional universities, community colleges, and technical schools, proximity to the Eastern Seaboard for supersonic flight testing over water and close proximity to several top-tier aerospace suppliers. North Carolina’s aerospace manufacturing sector has grown three-times faster than the national average over the past few years.

“It’s an exciting time to live in North Carolina and see the influx of innovative companies establish roots in our state. The high-paying and skilled jobs that Boom Supersonic will create will make a significant economic impact in the Triad and across the entire state,” said North Carolina Senate Leader Phil Berger.

“Boom Supersonic continues to deliver on its commitments and is growing its presence in North Carolina, building excitement in the community,” said Paul Mengert, Chair of the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority. “On behalf of the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority and our board members, we congratulate Boom on this milestone for Overture.”

Throughout this year, Boom will focus on construction of the Overture Superfactory with BE&K Building Group and their design partner, BRPH. The building will be LEED certified in keeping with Boom’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

In 2024, Boom will install tooling, provided by Advanced Integration Technology (AIT), ahead of moving into the building and preparing the facility and staff for Overture production launch the same year.

Boom continues to complete critical program milestones including the unveiling of SymphonyTM, the new propulsion system designed and optimized for Overture, which also took place in Greensboro last month.

About Boom Supersonic

Boom Supersonic is transforming air travel with Overture, the world’s fastest airliner, optimized for speed, safety, and sustainability. Serving both civil and government markets, Overture will fly at twice the speed of today’s airliners and is designed to run on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Symphony™, a Boom-led collaboration with industry leaders, is the propulsion system that will power Overture. Overture’s order book, including purchases and options from American Airlines, United Airlines, and Japan Airlines, stands at 130 aircraft. Boom is working with Northrop Grumman for government and defense applications of Overture. Suppliers and partners collaborating with Boom on the Overture program include Collins Aerospace, Eaton, Florida Turbine Technologies (FTT), a business unit of Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., GE Additive, Safran Landing Systems, StandardAero and the United States Air Force. For more information, visit https://boomsupersonic.com.

Connect with Boom Supersonic on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube

Source: Boom