Aviation & Manufacturing

Air Capital & the factory floor

With wide-open airspace and strong aviation roots, Kansas is becoming a testing ground for commercial drones and unmanned aircraft.

Researchers see potential to link Kansas agriculture and aviation by producing sustainable aviation fuel from crops and residues.

Manufacturers in Wichita are expanding their use of lightweight composite materials that make aircraft more efficient and durable.

Some Kansas manufacturers are diversifying into components for wind turbines and other clean energy equipment.

Researchers and startups in Kansas are studying electric and hybrid propulsion, betting the aviation heartland can help pioneer the technology.

Aerospace suppliers in the Wichita region are diversifying sources and boosting inventory after years of supply chain disruption.

Additive manufacturing is moving from prototyping to production in Wichita's aerospace shops, enabling lighter, more complex parts.

Specialized testing facilities in Wichita push aircraft and components to their limits to ensure safety before they ever fly.

A shortage of skilled machinists is prompting Kansas manufacturers and schools to ramp up training for one of industry's most essential trades.