What is the future of aviation?

Question

Faster jets? More passangers? What will we do once all the jet fuel runs out? I'd love your input!

Answer 1

Aviation will continue and will make the necessary technological leaps to overcome fuel shortages.  Partly it will be helped by a shift by other fuel users to alternative energy sources, but it will also be helped by developments of hydrogen-based fuels, possibly some form of nuclear or thermonuclear propulsion system, and possibly a new hybrid semi-lighter-than-air technology relying less on fuel for lift.

Another possibility is the hypersonic or semi-orbital long-range air and spacecraft.  This would make the necessary techonological leap to overcome the limitations of supersonic transports and improve speed.

Jet fuel shouldn't run out in the forseeable future, largely because there are many ways to obtain it.  Jet fuel, which is essentially kerosene, can come from petroleum, but could also be synthesized using bio chemistry.  This could result in other problems.

Aviation could also be aided by creating alternative methods of moving passengers.  Better rail could replace short-haul airliners, especially in places where distances between cities are relatively short.

Aviation has already made a number of adaptive changes, but clearly more are needed, and we don't really have an infinite amount of time to make them.

Good question, and one I've also posed.

Answer 2

well scientists are working in alternative fuels, some theories even go as far as creating fuel from anti-matter. There is also hydrogen, natural gas and ethanol, but for Jets and aircraft a more powerful mix is needed and its name is Synfuel which is a mix of liquefied coal or natural gas.

Answer 3

Burn Moonshine!!! YEE HAWWW!!!! Kick the tires and light the fire's, and my smokey treat!

Answer 4

you never Know, perhaps lighter than air blimp type vehicles were not originally successful due to lack of technology, but as materials and the need to move large quantities of people and goods continues this form of aviation could well be viable