Facts About Aeronautical Engineering

Aeronautical engineering is the branch of aerospace engineering that focuses on the development and function of aircraft that operate within earth's atmosphere. Aeronautical engineers are typically required to complete a minimum of four years of undergraduate education before they are qualified for entry-level jobs.

Background

Aeronautical engineering is rooted in the curiosities and studies of ancient scholars, such as those that learned to fly kites in Ancient China. Aviation research became truly popular during the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. It was during this time that scientists such as Leonardo da Vinci began to understand the concepts related to flight, or more particularly, powered flight. These scholars provided the research that helped the Wright brothers to fly the first heavier-than-air, powered aircraft on December 17, 1903.

Current Developments

Aeronautics and aviation has come a long way over the past century. Modern aeronautical engineers focus on projects such as working to make air travel more economically and environmentally sustainable, and developing aircraft that is capable of traveling in both space and within Earth's atmosphere as well.

Educational and Training Requirements

All aeronautical engineers are required to receive an undergraduate degree in order to receive their license. However, most jobs require a level of specialized education and training that directs aspiring engineers to attend graduate school.

Career Information

Aeronautical engineering is one of the most highly-paid branches of engineering. The average annual income of engineer that works in aeronautics or aviation is $99,000, with senior and management-level engineers earning more than $140,000 each year.