As recently as the summer of 2001, many travelers were
dreading air transportation because of extensive delays associated with undercapacity of the system. That all changed on 9/11, and demand for air transportation has not yet returned to peak levels. Most U.S. airlines continue to struggle for survival, and some have filed for bankruptcy. The situation makes it difficult to argue that strong action is urgently needed to avert a crisis of undercapacity in the air transportation system. This report assesses the visions and goals for U.S. civil aviation and technology goals for the year 2050.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Executive Summary
1. Foundation for Change
2. Improving Air Transportation System
3. System Modeling and Simulation
4. Improving Aircraft Performance
5. Process for Change
Findings, Recommendations, and the Big Question
Appendix A: Statement of Task and Study Approach
Appendix B: Comparative Assessment of Goals and Visions
Appendix C: Biographies of Committee Members
Appendix D: Propulsion Taxonomy: Comments on Propulsion Fundamentals
Appendix E: Four Levels of Models
Appendix F: Acronyms and Abbreviations