Exponential Factors in Commercial Aviation

The air transport industry entered the era of commercial feasibility in 1936 with the introduction of the DC-3, which enabled airlines for the first time to operate at a profit by carrying passengers only and at existing fares. The remarkable development of air transportation into a primary worldwide mode of commerce and communication and into one of mankind's basic industries was made possible through the synergism of market growth and technological advancement. The rates of change have been exponential. This paper examines some of the critical exponential changes, how they affected the evolution of the industry, the trends leading to major issues of today, and the future exponents that may be vital to a still progressive, affordable, and profitable air transport industry.