Aviation

Skydiving Safety
This team addressed safety concerns in southern Arizona’s busy airspace by creating a centralized resource on skydiving operations. Their deliverables include a Google Doc and infographic detailing active drop zones, aircraft types, radio frequencies and procedures. Designed to promote safer flights, the information will be shared with AFTW.org and local flight schools to enhance pilot…

Line Service Asset Utilization
This team partnered with Chandler Air Service to address inefficiencies in asset usage and budget allocation within the line service department. By implementing artificial intelligence and data-driven tracking systems, the team aims to optimize asset utilization, reduce maintenance costs and improve overall profitability. Sponsor Chandler Air Service

Project Payload
This team conducted a high-level assessment of airport infrastructure and operations to support future economic growth. By analyzing current facilities, market trends and regional demand, the team identified opportunities to improve efficiency and expand capabilities. The goal is to provide strategic, financially sustainable recommendations to guide future investments and operational planning. Sponsor Mesa Gateway Airport…

Flight School Expansion
This team evaluated Sierra Charlie Aviation’s space constraints, which flight instructors identified as inadequate for effective ground instruction. To address current needs and accommodate future growth, the team explored property expansion options, analyzed the operational impact of increased space and conducted a financial assessment to weigh the costs and benefits of acquiring nearby properties. Sponsor…

Aviation Marketing
This team partnered with Desert Breeze Aviation, a local flight school operating a single aircraft, to support its planned expansion. With the school considering the purchase of an additional airplane, the team focused on evaluating the financial implications, developing marketing strategies and identifying growth opportunities to ensure long-term success and sustainability. Sponsor Desert Breeze Aviation

U.S. Air Force Accident Classification and Monetary Valuation
The United States Air Force uses a classification system to measure the severity of aviation accidents, with Class A being the most severe. A monetary threshold, currently set at $2.5 million, defines a Class A mishap, but recent advancements in fifth-generation stealth aircraft and upcoming sixth-generation technology necessitate a re-evaluation of this standard. For example,…

United Airlines Wifi Connection
The team collaborated with a contact at United Airlines to address WiFi connection and accessibility issues during long-haul flights. The project explored potential solutions to bridge the gap between the rapid advancements in aviation technology and the slower progress of in-flight WiFi capabilities. By identifying and recommending feasible options, the team aimed to help United…

Glendale Regional Airport Web Design
The Glendale Regional Airport faced challenges with its website, including limited accessibility for tenants and customers, outdated information, and inefficiencies in administrative communication. The team undertook a redesign and overhaul of the site with three primary goals. These included creating a more user-friendly interface, modernizing the website for long-term use, and integrating new payment portals…

Skybound Solutions
Redrock Flight School in Mesa, Arizona, faces several challenges that threaten its training programs and overall operations. Key issues included a shortage of flight instructors, an aging fleet with high maintenance costs and rising fuel and training expenses, all of which pose financial and operational hurdles. The project focused on developing strategies to attract and…

Phoenix Sky Harbor Fence Security Enhancement
The project at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport aimed to address the recurring issue of fence jumping by enhancing perimeter security. Sponsored by Paul Beurman, the team developed solutions that combined fundamental improvements with innovative, cutting-edge strategies to strengthen the airport’s defenses. By analyzing vulnerabilities and implementing both traditional and advanced measures, the project delivered a…