Study on Sustainable Aircraft Technology

Applying a systems analysis approach, this books studies to what extent potential new aircraft technologies (so called 'innovations') can contribute in reaching a more sustainable state in aviation. Although some authors are critical about the potential of only technology as a solution (a so called 'technical fix'), the claim that technology can solve many, if not all, our problems is quite often made. With the help of literature and experts a broad set of aircraft technologies is selected that, although not all very realistic, could potentially make substantial changes in the level of sustainability of aircraft and their usage. The possible effects of these technologies are compared to some plausible aviation demand growth scenarios. This comparison includes the fact that it takes quite some time for a new, potentially very promising technology to mature and to seriously spread among the active aircraft fleet.