Wings Questions #6 - by Kara Bobka

1. In your opinion, what was the most significant impact aviation had on our world in the first one hundred years of flight?

In my opinion, I believe the most significant impact aviation had on our world is that it proved even the impossible is possible.  If you recall, a lot of people thought the idea of aviation or flight was erroneous, impracticable, and unachievable – that is – except for the few scientists and the Wright brothers who accepted the challenge.  Although other scientists contributed to the engine and wing design solving the first two problems of flight, the Wright brothers finished the product by solving the third, which was control. 

Not only did these men help contribute to and produce one of the greatest achievements or inventions of the century [or world], but also they instilled hope in others.  They inspired others to study science and to construct apparatuses, and thereby, to advance science and technology.  Therefore, I feel that the most significant impact aviation had on our world in the first one hundred years of flight was that it gave hope and inspiration to others to achieve what may have seemed as the impossible (i.e. other aircraft – safer, faster, etc.; other technologies – radar systems, computer systems, etc.) in both science and technology.  Thus, the creation of aviation illustrated that anything is attainable and that anyone can achieve it, even if others disagree or refuse to support one’s ideals and/or its purposes.

2.   What do you think the future holds for aviation in the twenty first century?

Looking ahead, I think the future holds endless possibilities for aviation in the twenty first century.  The obvious would be several more advancements, as well as creations.  For example, I think we will continue to produce new models equipped with faster, more sustainable engines and parts.  Because automobiles are switching from gas-powered to electrical-powered, I think planes may also follow suit and rely on electricity to fly.  However, I am not sure how I feel about the safety behind it!  I am not too confident in the automobiles using it, let alone a plane! 

I also believe [or hope] that we will somehow produce better tracking devices to locate “missing” planes, especially after hearing and reading about the recent tragedy with the Malaysia Airlines Flight 370.  I could not imagine the hurt that those who lost loved ones are going through, especially since they have no idea where the plane and/or passengers even are.  So, if we could invent something that prevents these occurrences, then that would be groundbreaking and unbelievable!  Grant it, it will not stop some planes from facing eminent danger and plummeting into various objects and/or grounds, but at least we will know where or how to locate the aircraft so we can try to save the passengers and crew.  Thus, I think the future for aviation in the twenty first century is very bright, but that it is up to us [future scientists and engineers or ordinary children, like Wilbur and Orville Wright] to determine its intensity.