AFWERX Explores Tech Options for Improved Flightline Operations

AFWERX reviewed technologies for its Revolutionizing Flightline Operations Challenge during a pitch event held in Las Vegas, Nevada, in late August.

The Air Force innovation hub was interested in learning more about market offerings for airfield maintenance and repair, aircraft maintenance operations and flight line security, Air Force Magazine reported Wednesday.

During the event, innovators highlighted the application of autonomous technology to collect airfield surface data and artificial intelligence in determining surface anomalies and damage.

Smart pavements were one of the top solutions proposed to help augment security operations. Features such as facial recognition and detectable flightline access badges could be added to flightline features like pavements and lights for identifying individuals, according to a Sept. 7 release.

The Hill Air Force Base in Utah has been using smart technologies for its runway. Sensors installed on the base’s runway help officials detect pressure, temperature, moisture and movement, among other things.

Lt. Col. Yogi Lebby, the Air Force’s chief of advanced concepts, believes that the showcased technologies have the potential to transform aircraft maintenance operations.

“These new modernizing solutions will allow maintainers to be more proactive, document more effectively and drive efficiencies back into a maintainer’s day. The future is now and I’m excited to be part of the journey,” Lebby said in a statement.

The new AFWERX initiative builds on the previous Base of the Future Challenge, which is aimed at leveraging advanced technology to create an integrated base while maintaining security, being resilient and increasing agility.