Practical Aeronautics

From a practical perspective, we teach introductory aeronautics and propulsion short courses to anyone working directly or indirectly in the field of aviation.

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Aeronautics Courses

This 20 hr short course is all about airplanes, how they fly and why they look the way they do. From a very practical perspective, you’ll be introduced to the key aspects of aeronautics, including: low and high speed aerodynamics, stability and control, structures, and propulsion systems. Airplane performance and design tradeoffs are weaved throughout the discussion. A field trip will reinforce the learning objectives.

“The information presented gave a good overview of the big picture…This course presented the info in a way that not only teaches, but also opens people’s eyes to see what we are a part of.” – Ogden, Utah

“This was a great class for new trainees and journeymen. The course helped me understand my customer better allowing me to provide better support” – Warner Robins, Georgia

“Better know and understand both the products and foundations of many concepts/designs. Made me more excited/passionate about the products and aerospace industry” – North Charleston, South Carolina

“Worked in engines 15 years, would have liked to have had this course a long time ago. Very good info”    – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

This course covers much of the same material as Intro to Aeronautics, but not in as much depth, and is designed for anyone working directly or indirectly in the field of aviation.  A building-block approach is used.  You will be given a set of course notes and a copy of A Practical Introduction to Aeronautics, a reference specifically written for PAI’s aeronautics courses. 2.0 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are awarded.

After taking this short course, you will never look at an airplane the same again! Using design as a common thread, this 32 hr course answers questions like: High wing placement or low?  Swept or unswept?  One vertical stabilizer or two?  Canard or conventional configuration?  Turbofan or turbojet?

“Understanding why things are designed will help me better understand how best to repair and troubleshoot on our aging aircraft” – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

“This course has helped me make the connection from theory (school) and work (application).” – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

“Now I at least have a better understanding of the tasks the engineers on my project are working in. There are so many more factors associated with flying than I previously was aware of.” – Hampton, Virginia

“Made complex material less intimidating and conquerable. I feel very equipped to look at an aircraft and understand why it is designed the way it is” – Dayton, Ohio

Packed full of examples, you will graduate with a solid understanding of the basics of aeronautics and the give-and-take inherent to aircraft design.  With clear lesson objectives, the key aspects of aeronautics are presented:

  • Low and High-Speed Aerodynamics Lift: Sources of Drag — Stall — Mach Number Effects — Designing for Speed
  • Stability and Control: Ailerons, Elevator, and Rudder — Designing for Roll, Pitch, and Yaw Stability
  • Structures and Materials: Ribs, Spars, and Pressure Bulkheads — G-Loading — Landing Gear…Composites
  • Propulsion Systems: Propellers to SCRAMjets — Compressor, Combustor, and Turbine — Aircraft & Engine(s) Integration
  • Aircraft Performance: Thrust Curves, Range and Endurance, Glides, Climbs, Takeoffs and Landings, and Turns

Although the focus is clearly on conventional airplanes, discussion will “stray” to other air vehicles, including airships, helicopters, UAVs, and stealth, hypersonic, STOL, and micro-air vehicles.  You will be given a set of course notes and a copy of A Practical Introduction to Aeronautics, a reference specifically written for PAI’s aeronautics courses. A field trip will reinforce the learning objectives. 3.2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are awarded.

Learn more about other Practical Aero Courses

Contact Information

Practical Aeronautics, Inc.
P.O. Box 461434
Aurora, Colorado 80046-1434

Phone: (719) 659-7319
Email

What’s Special About PAI Courses?

What's special about PAI courses?

After attending a PAI course, you’ll leave with: Improved foundational understanding of airplane … Learn More

Who Should Attend a PAI Course?

Who Should Attend a PAI course?

Which Introductory or Advanced course is right for you? Anyone looking for a “big picture” … Learn More

In Affiliation with Dr. Link Jaw and with exclusive rights granted by Dr. Jack Mattingly

Practical Aeronautics is Proud to Offer:
Fundamentals of Aircraft Engine Controls, Accessories, and Health Management

Aircraft Engine Systems Design Introductory Systems Analysis

Aircraft Engine Systems Design Intermediate Engine Design

Aircraft Engine Systems Design Advanced Component Design

Cycle Analysis of Gas Turbine Engines

Why Take A Course with Practical Aero?

More than ever, today’s aircraft are complex systems requiring skilled professionals to combine their specific expertise into a fully integrated vehicle. The professionals who engineer, test, manufacture, and in any way support these aircraft are accomplished specialists, but often lack an overall understanding of the airplane system as a whole. Fundamental understanding of the airplane-engine system gives you improved ability to communicate more effectively and frame thinking beyond your area of expertise.

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