Sustainable Aviation: The Route to Climate-Neutral Aviation from edX

Sustainable aviation is a key area for climate action. In this course, we will introduce you to various aircraft technologies, and recent innovations and promising future developments in the field of aviation. All necessary mathematical and engineering concepts will explained.

We will start from the basics of how aircraft fly and how they impact the environment. You will gain present-day knowledge of technical solutions and possibilities of modern engineering to make aviation more sustainable.

Next, we will discuss solutions. you will learn about alternative propulsion methods, energy carriers (batteries, fuel cells) and novel aircraft designs (including the Flying V project at TU Delft, a new design for a highly energy-efficient and long-distance commercial aircraft.) We will also bust some common myths about the topics along the way, like why it is a very unpractical thought to simply cover up the entire aircraft with solar cells.

But the solutions presented will not cover just the technical aspects. You will discover the importance of the ecosystem surrounding aviation for its sustainability, including manufacturing and operations. The course will stimulate critical and creative thought about the future of aviation and how you can be part of those solutions.

With its long history of research of aircraft design, operations and climate effects, the world-class experts from the The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft will guide you through this journey to sustainable aviation. The course will also include guest lectures from industry professionals from leading aviation companies such as Airbus.

“We need climate-neutral aviation. The challenges are enormous, but solutions must and will be found. Through this MOOC we want to share what we know, so that all of you can be part of this ‘clean sky revolution’.” – Henri Werij, Dean Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft

Parts of the lecture materials in this course build upon outputs from the research projects AHEAD (Advanced Hybrid Engines for Aircraft Development), funded by the European Union within the FP7-TRANSPORT Research Program (grant agreement ID: 284636); and PARSIFAL (Prandtlplane Architecture for the Sustainable Improvement of Future Airplanes) funded by the European Union within the Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program (Grant Agreement n.723149).

What's inside

Learning objectives

Recognize how the fundamentals of commercial air transport operations and the life cycle of aircraft impact the environment.
Explain the inherent challenges in making aviation sustainable, and how these challenges stem from the principles of flight, propulsion, production and operation (there are no easy solutions!)
Present the current technological possibilities for making aviation more sustainable, how these possibilities can be implemented, and what their limitations are.

Discuss solutions for reducing the environmental impact of aviation on both the personal and the larger scale.
After completing this course, you will be able to:

Recognize how the fundamentals of commercial air transport operations and the life cycle of aircraft impact the environment.
Explain the inherent challenges in making aviation sustainable, and how these challenges stem from the principles of flight, propulsion, production and operation (there are no easy solutions!)
Present the current technological possibilities for making aviation more sustainable, how these possibilities can be implemented, and what their limitations are.
Discuss solutions for reducing the environmental impact of aviation on both the personal and the larger scale.
After completing this course, you will be able to:

Syllabus

Week 0: Welcome

In the Welcome section of this course we will explain how the course is set up, how the EdX platform works and we will give you an opportunity to introduce yourself and find out who else is following this course.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Taught by leading researchers from TU Delft, a world-renowned institution for aerospace engineering

Provides an industry-relevant overview of aircraft technologies, focusing on sustainability

Covers both technical and operational aspects of sustainable aviation

Suitable for learners with a general interest in aviation or sustainability

Explores cutting-edge concepts such as the Flying V design for energy-efficient aircraft

May require some basic background in physics and engineering for full comprehension

Reviews summary

Essential insights for climate-neutral aviation

According to students, this course offers a comprehensive and timely exploration of sustainable aviation, providing essential insights into reducing the industry's environmental impact. Learners appreciate the well-structured content that moves from foundational physics to novel aircraft designs and operational strategies. The expert instruction from TU Delft and guest lectures from industry professionals like Airbus are highlighted as particularly valuable, offering a balanced view of technical challenges and practical solutions. While covering complex engineering concepts, the course aims to make them accessible, stimulating critical thought on the future of aviation.

Encourages critical thought beyond just technical solutions.

"I liked how they didn't just present technical solutions but also discussed the broader ecosystem and operations."

"It really made me think critically about the 'easy solutions' and busted some common myths about aviation sustainability."

"The course pushed me to consider how I can contribute to the 'clean sky revolution' in a meaningful way."

Breaks down complex engineering and physics concepts effectively.

"Even without a deep engineering background, I could follow the explanations of flight physics and propulsion systems."

"They do a great job explaining the mathematical and engineering concepts required to understand the content."

"The course managed to make difficult topics like emissions and atmospheric effects quite understandable."

Taught by world-class experts with valuable industry insights.

"The TU Delft instructors are clearly experts in their field, and their passion for the topic shines through."

"I especially valued the guest lectures from industry professionals; they brought a real-world perspective."

"Learning from Airbus experts directly provided practical context that isn't usually found in online courses."

Offers a holistic view of sustainable aviation challenges and solutions.

"I found the course incredibly comprehensive, covering everything from basic flight physics to complex future designs and operations."

"This course really brought me up-to-date on the latest in sustainable aviation fuels and novel propulsion systems."

"The way it connected aircraft design, production, and end-of-life with environmental impact was really insightful."

Benefits learners with some prior technical or scientific background.

"While concepts are explained, having a basic understanding of physics or engineering would definitely make it easier."

"I found some of the initial weeks on flight physics quite dense if you're not familiar with the concepts already."

"The technical depth is a strength, but I think a complete beginner might find some parts challenging without extra effort."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Sustainable Aviation: The Route to Climate-Neutral Aviation with these activities:

Prepare a Course Notebook

Show steps

Create a dedicated notebook for this course to keep a record of your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams.

Show steps

Purchase a notebook that is the right size for your needs.
Create a table of contents or index for easy navigation.
Set up sections for different units or topics covered in the course.

Review introductory Physics

Show steps

Review key principles of physics to ensure that you have a solid foundational understanding before beginning this course.

Browse courses on Physics

Show steps

Review your old notes from your intro Physics course.
Take practice problems that cover basic concepts in physics.
Review online courses or textbooks on introductory physics.

Review of mathematical concepts

Show steps

Brush up on the foundational mathematical concepts (calculus, linear algebra, etc.) that will be used throughout the course.

Browse courses on Calculus

Show steps

Review your notes from previous math courses.
Take practice problems that cover the key math concepts.
Consult online resources or textbooks to refresh your memory.

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Tutorial on Aircraft Propulsion Systems

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of aircraft propulsion systems by following a structured tutorial.

Show steps

Identify an online tutorial or course on aircraft propulsion systems.
Follow the tutorial, taking notes and completing any exercises.
Review the material covered in the tutorial.

Practice Problems for Aviation Engineering

Show steps

Enhance your problem-solving skills by completing practice problems related to the course content.

Show steps

Find online resources or textbooks that provide practice problems.
Solve the problems, checking your answers against provided solutions.
Review the problems and solutions to identify areas for improvement.

Create a Poster on Sustainable Aviation

Show steps

Demonstrate your understanding of sustainable aviation by creating a visual poster that summarizes key concepts.

Show steps

Gather information about sustainable aviation from the course materials and other sources.
Organize the information into a visually appealing format.
Create a poster using design software or online tools.
Share your poster with others for feedback and discussion.

Peer Discussion on Aircraft Design

Show steps

Engage with your peers to discuss and exchange ideas on the topic of aircraft design.

Show steps

Find a study group or online forum where you can connect with other students.
Participate in discussions, asking questions and sharing your perspectives.
Collaborate on projects or assignments.

Volunteer at an Aviation Museum or Center

Show steps

Gain practical experience and insights by volunteering at an aviation museum or center.

Show steps

Identify local aviation museums or centers that offer volunteer opportunities.
Contact the organizations to inquire about volunteer positions.
Participate in volunteer activities, such as assisting with exhibits or educational programs.

Career center

Learners who complete Sustainable Aviation: The Route to Climate-Neutral Aviation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. They use their knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science to create vehicles that are safe, efficient, and reliable. This course can help Aerospace Engineers understand the environmental impact of their work and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft propulsion, energy carriers, and novel aircraft design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers develop solutions to environmental problems, such as air and water pollution, climate change, and waste management. They use their knowledge of science and engineering to design and implement systems that protect human health and the environment. This course can help Environmental Engineers understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft emissions, climate effects, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and maintain mechanical systems, such as engines, turbines, and robots. They use their knowledge of physics, materials science, and mathematics to create systems that are efficient, reliable, and safe. This course can help Mechanical Engineers understand the environmental impact of their work and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft propulsion, energy carriers, and novel aircraft design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Materials Scientist

Materials Scientists develop and study new materials, such as metals, ceramics, and polymers. They use their knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering to create materials that are stronger, lighter, and more durable. This course can help Materials Scientists understand the environmental impact of their work and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft production, end of life, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist

Energy Policy Analyst

Energy Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies that promote the development and use of sustainable energy sources. They use their knowledge of economics, policy, and environmental science to create policies that are effective and efficient. This course can help Energy Policy Analysts understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft emissions, climate effects, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Policy Analyst

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants help organizations to reduce their environmental impact and improve their sustainability performance. They use their knowledge of environmental science, business, and policy to develop and implement sustainability strategies. This course can help Sustainability Consultants understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft emissions, climate effects, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Climate Scientist

Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate and how it is changing. They use their knowledge of atmospheric science, oceanography, and other disciplines to understand the causes and effects of climate change. This course can help Climate Scientists understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft emissions, climate effects, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Scientist

Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law and policy. They use their knowledge of the law to protect the environment and human health. This course can help Environmental Lawyers understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft emissions, climate effects, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Activist

Environmental Activists work to protect the environment and promote sustainability. They use their knowledge of environmental issues and their passion for the environment to raise awareness and advocate for change. This course can help Environmental Activists understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft emissions, climate effects, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Activist

Transportation Planner

Transportation Planners develop and implement transportation plans that improve the efficiency and sustainability of transportation systems. They use their knowledge of transportation engineering, economics, and policy to create plans that meet the needs of communities and businesses. This course may help Transportation Planners understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft emissions and climate effects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Planner

Airline Manager

Airline Managers oversee the operations of airlines. They are responsible for planning, scheduling, and managing the airline's fleet, staff, and finances. This course may help Airline Managers understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft operations, fuel efficiency, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Airline Manager

Pilot

Pilots operate aircraft. They are responsible for flying the aircraft safely and efficiently. This course may help Pilots understand the environmental impact of aviation and develop strategies to reduce it. The course covers topics such as aircraft performance, fuel efficiency, and sustainable aviation fuels.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pilot

Air Traffic Controller

Air Traffic Controllers are responsible for ensuring the safe and orderly flow of air traffic. They use their knowledge of airspace management and aircraft operations to guide aircraft through airspace.

See salaries and explore the career path for Air Traffic Controller

Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft Mechanics maintain and repair aircraft. They use their knowledge of aircraft systems and components to ensure that aircraft are safe and airworthy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aircraft Mechanic

Flight Attendant

Flight Attendants provide passenger service on aircraft. They are responsible for ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Flight Attendant