How Military Aviation Impacted Commercial Flights
Commercial aviation today can trace its roots back to the early days of military aviation. Military aviation naturally evolved with progress made in the areas of safety and efficiency. In this article, we’ll discuss the connections between commercial and military aviation, and touch on how they are both similar and different.
Commercial Aviation
Commercial aviation refers to airline operations where aircraft transport people and cargo for profit. Transporting mail also falls under the umbrella of commercial aviation. The industry has evolved from biplanes and propeller plans to the advanced jetliners that fill the skies. Today’s commercial aircraft connect people from around the globe, and the industry relies on a balance of efficiency, safety, and technology innovations.
How Military Aviation Impacted Commercial Flights
The military continues to play an important role in shaping the commercial aircraft industry. Wartime technology advancements have a way of working their way into the non defense sector. Commercial air travel follows many of the same safety and efficiency rules. Here are several ways in which military aviation has made a huge impact on commercial aviation:
● Technology Innovations: Jet propulsion was pioneered by the military. It increased the speed of aircraft, and enabled them to fly higher with far more efficiency. Radar systems for aircraft were born out of necessity, and the safety systems are used for military and commercial aircraft today.
● Safety Standards: The military developed rigorous safety standards that are followed by commercial airlines. Both sectors place a major emphasis on safety, and ground and flight crew training along with maintenance. Both rely on special safety methods to handle emergencies and mishaps. The chances of an injury on a commercial flight are far less than the possibility of being injured in an auto accident.
● Air Traffic Control: The military developed effective air traffic control systems. Air traffic management for commercial aircraft now ensures that air traffic is safe. Flights land and take-off in an orderly way.
In the military, pilot and crew members can receive a challenge coin as an act of appreciation for their service. Members can present the coins in a handshake, where one member challenges another to show their coin. The member who's unable to show their coin might have to perform a friendly task.
Airlines give coins to pilots, crew members, or the ground crew as a way of saying thanks for their exceptional service. Commercial aviation challenge coins may show insignia or aircraft imagery. Military challenge coins can differ by showing rank, special markings, or a military unit such as a squadron or ship. Both traditions are inspirational, and serve as a reward for teamwork and achievements.
Conclusion
Military and commercial aviation share an inseparable bond. The military pioneered many of the innovations used by today’s commercial airlines. The military and civilian sectors also share a similar tradition by rewarding members with challenge coins. The field of aviation will continue to advance, and the military and commercial sectors will continue to grow side by side.
Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for Challenge Coins