aviacija

Aviacija, a term used in several Slavic languages for aviation, refers to the field concerned with flight and air travel. In English, aviation encompasses the design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance of aircraft, as well as air transport and related services. It covers civil aviation, which includes commercial airlines and general aviation, and military aviation, which supports defense and security.

The pursuit of powered flight began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with experiments by pioneers such as the Wright brothers achieving the first controlled, sustained flight in 1903. Throughout the 20th century aviation expanded rapidly, evolving from fragile wood-and-fabric aircraft to metal airframes, jet propulsion, and wide-bodied commercial airliners.

Today, civil aviation is the backbone of global air travel and cargo, while general aviation includes private flying, flight training, and business aircraft. Military aviation serves roles such as reconnaissance, air defense, and tactical support. Air transport infrastructure also includes airports, air traffic control systems, and regulatory bodies that oversee safety and efficiency.

Global standards are coordinated by international organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and industry groups like IATA. National authorities oversee safety, airworthiness, licensing, and airspace management.

Technological progress continues to improve efficiency and safety, with advances in propulsion, lightweight materials, avionics, and satellite-based navigation. Environmental concerns drive research into sustainable aviation fuels, electrification, and more efficient flight operations to reduce emissions and noise.