Aircraft Systems/Operations Courses

Introduction to
Aircraft Systems

A Practical Perspective
20 hour short course

The aircraft is a collection of systems, a “collection” that must be successfully integrated for the aircraft to accomplish its mission.  This 20 hour short course introduces the major systems—their purpose, how they operate (including theory), integration considerations, certification challenges, and industry trends (including both military and civil designs).

With clear lesson objectives and packed full of real-world examples, the course covers the following subjects and includes an air museum or major aircraft facility tour:

  • The powerplant—energy source for most systems (and “customer” of some)
  • Fluid-based systems—fuel, hydraulics, and pneumatics
  • Environmental, pressurization, and ice protection systems
  • Takeoff and landing systems
  • Electrical and avionics systems
  • Flight control systems
  • Systems case study/group design project

This course is designed for anyone working directly or indirectly in the field of aviation including program managers, engineers, scientists, analysts, and technicians, as well as aircraft operational, test, logistical, and maintenance personnel.  Since 2002, we’ve taught thousands of professionals from audiences across the Air Force, Navy, NASA, FAA, and industry.  Our instructors have earned a tremendous reputation for their practical teaching style–in our classrooms, theory and practical application come alive!

Each student will be provided with a set of course notes and a copy of “Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, Volumes 1 and 2.”  2.0 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are awarded.

Although written for a technical audience, a building-block approach is used — no prior knowledge is assumed.   Here are a few comments from recent offerings:

“Great way to “connect the dots” for those working in sectors in aviation”

Columbia, South Carolina

“Good info at high level. Great course for people with no aerospace experience. Definitely recommend for new people”

North Charleston, South Carolina

“Helps me to better understand how my specific system works with other areas of aircraft and the demands it places on the system”

Ogden, Utah

“It was practical aeronautics! Simple and covered material clearly. The personal experience of the instructors added so much depth to the material”

Dayton, Ohio
MQ-1B Predator
Introduction to operations in the national airspace

20 hour short course

Those who develop, manage, and operate air vehicles need to be familiar with the aviation regulatory and operating environment. This 20 hr short course introduces the major issues involved—which are even more critical when the air vehicles are unmanned/remotely operated. This course covers the aviation environment, air vehicle capabilities and limitations, the fundamentals of air vehicle operations, and their certification. A group case study helps put the classroom learning in perspective. With clear learning objectives and packed full of examples, the course follows the outline below:

Introduction and Setting the Stage

Understand the Aviation Environment

  • National Airspace
  • Pilot/Operator Procedures
  • Weather’s Impact
  • Aircraft Capabilities/Limitations

Aviation Systems/Integration

  • Systems Overview
  • Flight Avionics
  • Navigation/Safety Avionics
  • Automation/Autonomy

Certification for Vehicles/Operators

  • Certification Process
  • Vehicle Certification
  • Operator Certification
  • Impact of Rules on Operations

Group Case Study

Conclusion

Anyone in government or industry who can benefit from an understanding of how air vehicles operate should attend. A study of manned and unmanned air vehicle operations is not traditionally incorporated into university curricula–this course provides that foundational knowledge. Although written for a technical audience, a building-block approach is used–no prior knowledge is assumed. Each student is provided a set of course notes and a copy of the FAA’s Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. 2.0 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are awarded.

USAF photo -- shows an unmanned aircraft / hydrogen powered / control tower / Edwards AFB / alternate launch technology
USAF photo — shows an unmanned aircraft / hydrogen powered / control tower / Edwards AFB / alternate launch technology

Here are a few comments from recent offerings of this course:

“Engaging, knowledgeable, and accommodating.  The class was enjoyable and subject matter is of great interests to me.”

Havelock, North Carolina

“The instructors are amazing! They clearly described all the content and engaged the students.” 

Hampton, Virginia

“It gives me insight into all the info that is fighting for the pilots’ attention.”

Havelock, North Carolina

“Provided a comprehensive overview with clear windows into where the complexities lie, with good stories to illustrate concepts and problems.”

Havelock, North Carolina

“More context to the flight operations in the airspace is always welcome. Interaction with many shareholders from the case study was beneficial.”

Havelock, North Carolina
Learn More about Practical Aero Courses

What’s Special about PAI Courses?

Unique Content Design, Systems Focus,
Unique Teaching Style, Building Block Approach

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