What are the most common misconceptions about aerospace engineering?

Aerospace engineering is a fascinating and challenging field that involves designing, developing, testing, and operating aircraft, spacecraft, rockets, satellites, and other systems that fly or operate in the atmosphere or space. However, there are also many misconceptions and myths about what aerospace engineering is, what it does, and what it requires. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common misconceptions about aerospace engineering and reveal the truth behind this exciting and diverse discipline.

1 Misconception 1: Aerospace engineering is only about rockets and space

One of the most common misconceptions about aerospace engineering is that it is only concerned with rockets and space exploration. While these are certainly important and exciting aspects of aerospace engineering, they are not the only ones. Aerospace engineering also covers a wide range of topics and applications related to aircraft, helicopters, drones, balloons, airships, missiles, satellites, planetary probes, space stations, and more. Aerospace engineering is not just about going to space, but also about improving the performance, efficiency, safety, and sustainability of various systems that fly or operate in the atmosphere or space.

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Scott DeSmet

Aerospace and Defense Industry Executive | Business Development | Operations Management & Business Director
When discussing aerospace engineering, a common misconception is its limited scope, often overlooking aspects like DO-160 compliance. DO-160 is essential in aerospace product design, setting the environmental testing standards for all aviation equipment. This encompasses a wide array of tests, from temperature and pressure endurance to vibration and electromagnetic interference tolerance. Aerospace engineering involves not only the innovative design of aircraft and space vehicles but also ensuring that every component meets these stringent standards. This focus on detailed testing and certification specific to aviation engineering is a critical aspect that broadens the role of aerospace engineers beyond just space and aircraft design.
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2 Misconception 2: Aerospace engineering is very hard and math-intensive

Another common misconception about aerospace engineering is that it is very hard and math-intensive. While it is true that aerospace engineering requires a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, it is not impossible or inaccessible to anyone who is interested and motivated. Aerospace engineering is not just about solving complex equations and formulas, but also about applying creativity, logic, intuition, and teamwork to design and optimize solutions for real-world problems. Aerospace engineering is not just hard and math-intensive, but also rewarding and fun.

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3 Misconception 3: Aerospace engineering is only for men

A third common misconception about aerospace engineering is that it is only for men. While it is true that historically, aerospace engineering has been a male-dominated field, this is changing rapidly. According to the American Society for Engineering Education, the percentage of women in aerospace engineering bachelor's degrees increased from 14.5% in 2010 to 19.6% in 2019. Moreover, there are many inspiring and influential women in aerospace engineering, such as Katherine Johnson, Sally Ride, Mae Jemison, Ellen Ochoa, Eileen Collins, and more. Aerospace engineering is not only for men, but for anyone who has a passion and curiosity for flight and space.

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Jop Dingemans

AW169 HEMS Captain | Founder of Pilots Who Ask Why | Aerospace Engineer | Flight Instructor
Yes, aerospace engineering and aviation are mostly male-dominated. That does not mean women are not able to excel and be hyper-successful in these fields. In fact, all of the women I’ve ever worked with over the last 10 years in both aerospace engineering, flight training, and the HEMS industry were all extremely successful, and were all highly respected by their peers. It has been well established that there’s a strong need for more role models for women in these fields. The industry is already becoming more diverse. However, in addition to introducing hiring practices that ignore gender, the industry should also have a pro-active approach to inspire girls to enter the world of aviation.
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4 Misconception 4: Aerospace engineering is very expensive and elitist

A fourth common misconception about aerospace engineering is that it is very expensive and elitist. While it is true that aerospace engineering projects often require large budgets, sophisticated equipment, and specialized expertise, this does not mean that aerospace engineering is only for the rich and powerful. There are many opportunities and resources for anyone who wants to learn more about aerospace engineering, such as online courses, books, podcasts, blogs, videos, clubs, competitions, scholarships, internships, and more. Aerospace engineering is not very expensive and elitist, but accessible and inclusive.

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5 Misconception 5: Aerospace engineering is very risky and dangerous

A fifth common misconception about aerospace engineering is that it is very risky and dangerous. While it is true that aerospace engineering involves working with high-speed, high-altitude, high-energy, and high-precision systems that can pose potential hazards, this does not mean that aerospace engineering is reckless and irresponsible. Aerospace engineering is governed by strict standards, regulations, protocols, and ethics that ensure the safety and reliability of the systems and the people involved. Moreover, aerospace engineering is constantly developing new technologies and methods to reduce the risks and enhance the benefits of flight and space. Aerospace engineering is not very risky and dangerous, but responsible and innovative.

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6 Misconception 6: Aerospace engineering is irrelevant and impractical

A sixth common misconception about aerospace engineering is that it is irrelevant and impractical. While it is true that aerospace engineering often deals with ambitious and visionary goals that may seem far-fetched or unrealistic, this does not mean that aerospace engineering is useless or wasteful. Aerospace engineering has many applications and impacts on various aspects of our lives, such as transportation, communication, navigation, weather, defense, exploration, science, education, entertainment, and more. Aerospace engineering is not irrelevant and impractical, but relevant and practical.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Wezi Nyimbili

Aerospace Engineer / Lecturer at Copperbelt University
Aerospace engineers aren't limited to NASA or big corporations; they find roles in research, startups, defense, energy industry, automotive industry, academia, and more. The diverse applications of aerospace engineering skills extend across various industries, making it an exciting and adaptable field with numerous career paths to explore.
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What are the most common misconceptions about aerospace engineering?

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1 Misconception 1: Aerospace engineering is only about rockets and space

2 Misconception 2: Aerospace engineering is very hard and math-intensive

3 Misconception 3: Aerospace engineering is only for men

4 Misconception 4: Aerospace engineering is very expensive and elitist

5 Misconception 5: Aerospace engineering is very risky and dangerous

6 Misconception 6: Aerospace engineering is irrelevant and impractical

7 Here’s what else to consider

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