Aerospace

When Pilot allowed to take photograph in cockpit

Recently Quartz published an article showcasing photographs pilots have taken from the cockpit of aircraft to post on Instagram. Lets know what’s Aviation regulations explains about cockpit photographs

According CAA

Section 20A of the Civil Aviation Act provides that:

“[a] person must not operate an aircraft being reckless as to whether the manner of operation could endanger’ either the life of another person or the person or property of another person.”

Under the Civil Aviation Regulations, a pilot in command of an aircraft is responsible for the operation and safety of the aircraft during flight time, the safety of people carried on the aircraft, and the conduct and safety of members of the crew on the aircraft.

Under the same regulations, the pilot in command must ensure that one pilot

“is at the controls of an aircraft from the time at which the engine or engines is or are started prior to a flight until the engine or engines is or are stopped at the termination of a flight”.

According FAA

Guidelines of FAA 91.21(6) FAA regulations prohibit commercial pilots from using a personal wireless communications device or laptop computer for personal use while at their duty station on the flight deck while the aircraft is being operated. A personal wireless device may only be used if it is directly related to operation of the aircraft, or for emergency, safety-related, or employment-related communications, in accordance with air carrier procedures.

In general, wireless devices include, but are not limited to, devices such as cell phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants, tablets, ereaders, some gaming systems, iPods and MP3 players, as well as netbooks and notebook computers. The rule does not affect the person occupying the jumpseat.

According Indian DGCA followed regulation.

Aeronautical Information Circular . 1353(E) .

S.O. 1353 (E): Regarding Rule 13 of Aircraft Rules, 1937 pertaining to ‘Photographs at aerodromes or from aircraft in flight’ and
Order No. 9/12/2003-IR dated 9.12.2004 – Permission of photography inside an aircraft.

According to AIC and AIP is not explains much more about the conditions and compliance but it is mandatory to follow the international regulations and amendment from FAA

Here is chart made by Quartz when exactly pilot allow to take photograph .

If YES then happy selfie

Story & Picture credits : Quartz , Aeronautical Information Circular , The conversation

Aerospace

Boeing’s Aurora Flight Sciences Expands Columbus Plant by 50,000 Sqft

Credit:Aurora Flight Sciences

Aurora Flight Sciences, a subsidiary of Boeing, has launched a significant expansion of its manufacturing facility near the Golden Triangle Regional Airport in Columbus, Mississippi.

This ambitious project will add 50,000 square feet of new space, renovate 40,000 square feet of the existing facility, and introduce advanced automation equipment, robotics, and non-destructive inspection technologies. mcas boeing enhancements will support the growing demand for Aurora’s aerospace systems business.

Since its establishment, Aurora Mississippi has specialized in the production of advanced composite components and assemblies for both military and commercial aircraft. The company first opened in 2005 at Mississippi State University’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory in Starkville before relocating to its current site in Columbus two years later.

Initially occupying 21,000 square feet, the facility has since grown to encompass over 120,000 square feet, featuring cutting-edge manufacturing technologies such as automated fiber placement. Aurora’s latest expansion is a strategic investment aimed at increasing production capacity for composite components like boeing titanium used in executive jets and the MQ-25TM Stingray composite skins, a key project for its parent company, Boeing.

Additionally, the facility will produce components for NASA’s X-66 sustainable flight demonstrator aircraft, further diversifying its portfolio. Currently employing around 100 full-time staff in Mississippi, Aurora plans to hire more than 60 additional team members by the end of 2025.

Aurora’s expansion project underscores its commitment to Mississippi’s growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing sector. The company maintains strong partnerships with Mississippi State University (MSU) and East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), contributing to research, higher education, and workforce development in advanced manufacturing.

Additionally, Aurora actively supports local K-12 STEM education through summer camps and collaborates with high school vocational education programs. The expansion and renovation project will be carried out in phases over the next two years, with completion expected by 2026. This development marks a significant milestone in Aurora’s ongoing growth and its role in advancing aerospace manufacturing in Mississippi.