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Magazine Issue

Aviation Week & Space Technology, September 9, 2024

VOL. 186 NO. 35 September 09, 2024
Cover of Sept. 9, 2024, Digital Edition of AW&ST

The Space Development Agency is on the cusp of proving out a massive experiment in Pentagon acquisition and military space operations. First, it must relay data among its on-orbit systems, from space to an airborne system and to ground receivers.

Credit: General Atomics

MILITARY SPACE

GA-75 spacecraft
article

U.S. Space Development Agency Prepares For Critical Tech Demonstrations

Sep 06, 2024
Space-to-space and space-to-air tests are planned to prove optical communications capability.
Rocket Lab launchpad
article

U.S. Space Force Reshapes Small-Launch Program

Sep 03, 2024
The service is taking the Rocket Systems Launch Program back to its customer-funded roots, but small launchers still have routes to work with the government.

AUTONOMY

pilot at flight deck
article

Pilots Ramp Up Opposition To Reduced-Crew Concepts

Sep 06, 2024
Although there is no imminent threat, pilot groups are stepping up their campaign against reduced-crew and single-pilot concepts.
F-16 fighter landing on runway
article

How A Small USAF Unit Will Shape The Service’s Autonomy Goals

Sep 04, 2024
While the Collaborative Combat Aircraft effort prioritizes quick fielding, Project VENOM plans to evaluate future improved capabilities—including AI.

COMMERCIAL AVIATION

United Airlines flight attendants holding up yellow signs reading "pay us or chaos" and "contract now"
article

U.S. Flight Attendant Contract Negotiations Push For Improvements

Sep 06, 2024
Complicated by COVID-19, the negotiations have been ongoing for years with some bargaining groups, and patience is wearing thin.
airport passengers in line
article

Europe’s Airlines Fear New Border System Will Cause Delays

Sep 03, 2024
The Entry-Exit System should finally come into force Nov. 10, but airlines fear preparations could bring delays.
Aura Aero ERA aircraft concept
article

Aura Aero’s Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Design Effort Is In Full Swing

Sep 04, 2024
The CEO reports progress toward raising €450 million and reaching certification of the ERA 19-seater.

SPACE

Hall-effect thruster
article

Startups Push To Introduce Metal Propellants For Spacecraft

Sep 05, 2024
The elements offer greater thrust potential than conventional gas propellants.

DEFENSE

Leonardo AW149 Helicopter at Farnborough Airshow
article

Leonardo Remains Only Bidder For UK Medium Helicopter Program

Sep 06, 2024
The flagship UK helicopter modernization program has suffered delays and shrunk in size before a contract has even been signed.

ROTORCRAFT

United Therapeutics helicopter flying over golf course
article

Robinson Adds Hydrogen-Powered Helicopters To Its Innovative Ventures

Sep 06, 2024
The helicopter company is partnering with United Therapeutics to bring hydrogen-electric propulsion to the R44 and R66.

TECHNOLOGY

c-130j in flight pictured from the front
article

The Week In Technology, Sept. 2-6, 2024

Sep 03, 2024
C-130J as a hydrogen demonstrator; fuel cells for European regional project; ductile composites for LH2 tanks.

COLUMNS & OPINION

Boeing maintenance worker
article

Opinion: Why Boeing Global Services Should Be Phased Out

Sep 05, 2024
Winding down BGS would simplify the organization, raise cash and signal that Boeing is returning to its roots of aircraft development and manufacturing.