Around the world we find ourselves in new problems every day. Thankfully we find ourselves with new solutions regularly too. More recently, some of the most inventive and effective aviation innovations to address some common issues have made their way to the surface. Check out a few we wanted to highlight:

No More Bird Strikes

A former 35 year old financial manager, Arthur McCoy, has created something to stop the possibility of birds flying into airplane engines. He’s called this invention “Ethan’s Cage” and it is a lightweight, titanium mesh cage that is hydraulically controlled to cover the engines during takeoffs and landings. Ethan’s cage prevents any birds from causing injuries, saves lives, and also saving the industry millions. Read more about it here!

Windowless Cockpits

How about moving the cockpit and using a digital screen instead of window? Well that’s what Airbus is working on. Last year Airbus filed a patent that will allow the plane to be more aerodynamic with this new windowless design. Find out more about it here! 

Virtual Reality

Forget about the in flight movies on the tiny seat backs and the headphones. Instead, slip on your virtual helmet and immerse yourself in a movie or game while enjoying your flight Airbus passed a patent and are working on implementing this feature for future entertainment.

Terrorist Trap Door

Positioned right outside the cockpit and controlled by the pilots inside the cockpit, is a trap door under the floor that can be initiated with a touch of a button. If a hijacker would try to force their way into the cockpit they would become trapped.

If you liked this list of inventions and patents for inventions, share your favorites with us!