The Underrated Value of Incremental Research in Aviation

Abstract

In the aviation industry, the excitement of groundbreaking discoveries often overshadows the significant impact of incremental research. This paper argues that small, continuous improvements are just as crucial as revolutionary innovations in advancing aviation research. First, we illustrate how incremental steps have collectively transformed aviation research—such as the evolution of jet engines, winglet technology, and composite materials. We further explore the role of incremental research in addressing modern aviation challenges while highlighting this approach's economic and practical benefits. Finally, we discuss how to establish a research agenda/platform that considers these issues while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced focus on both incremental and revolutionary research. This approach provides a reliable path to continuous improvement while fostering a successful research future for aviation.