Behind the Scenes at Wichita's Aircraft Testing Labs
Specialized testing facilities in Wichita push aircraft and components to their limits to ensure safety before they ever fly.
Aviation & Manufacturing
Air Capital & the factory floor
Defense Work Adds Ballast to Wichita's Aviation Economy
Military contracts for aircraft modification and support provide steady work that helps balance the volatile commercial market.
Wichita-Built Aircraft Fly to Markets Around the World
Exports remain vital to Wichita's aircraft manufacturers, who sell a large share of their planes to international customers.
Wichita-Built Aircraft Shine at EAA AirVenture as Skyhawk Orders Roll In
Textron Aviation brought new Cessna and Beechcraft models to EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh and announced a fresh order of 15 training aircraft from a major flight school.
Surging Pilot Demand Lifts Kansas General Aviation
A global pilot shortage is driving demand for training aircraft and flight instruction, a boon for Kansas's general aviation sector.
Kansas Positions Itself at the Forefront of Drone Technology
With wide-open airspace and strong aviation roots, Kansas is becoming a testing ground for commercial drones and unmanned aircraft.
Kansas Factories Branch Into Clean Energy Components
Some Kansas manufacturers are diversifying into components for wind turbines and other clean energy equipment.
Kansas Engineers Take Early Steps Toward Electric Flight
Researchers and startups in Kansas are studying electric and hybrid propulsion, betting the aviation heartland can help pioneer the technology.
Kansas Races to Train Machinists for Its Factories
A shortage of skilled machinists is prompting Kansas manufacturers and schools to ramp up training for one of industry's most essential trades.