Member Spotlight – Brian Ostermann

By Katie Sabo

Brian Ostermann, Senior Business Development Leader and Senior Human Factors Engineer at SENTIR Laboratories, has built a dynamic career blending human factors expertise with business development. At SENTIR, he initially contributed to a high-impact Air Force project, completing it ahead of schedule and delivering actionable insights to decision-makers. Transitioning to business development, Brian emphasizes networking, understanding client needs, and leveraging SENTIR’s capabilities to solve industry challenges. His diverse background, from serving as a flight engineer in the Air Force to studying human factors, informs his approach to fostering collaboration and innovation. Brian’s passion for aviation, coupled with his adaptability, continues to drive his efforts to bridge technical expertise with strategic growth opportunities.

Rewatch ASTG Webinar – Integrating eVTOLs into Military Operations

The inaugural ASTG webinar occurred on Nov 6, 2024 . You can watch the video recording and catch our written summary with the main highlights of the discussion.

Abstract. Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft are on the verge of transforming not only commercial air travel but also military operations. In a recent webinar hosted by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES – ASTG), three engineers from the Agility Prime initiative—a U.S. Air Force program designed to explore the viability of eVTOLs for defense applications—shed light on how this technology is being adapted for military use. Based out of Edwards Air Force Base, the engineers shared the unique challenges, technological advances, and human factors considerations that have shaped their approach to eVTOL testing and integration.

ASTG Business Meeting

We held our technical group Business Meeting on Friday, Nov 22nd. Thanks to all the members who participated!

Main highlights:

• 2024 budget of $31,595, stable year over year
• 378 members (+50% over 2 years)
• Two open roles to join the executive committee next year (TG vice chair and Program vice chair), nomination form opened up to Wednesday Nov. 27th.

ASTG has an exciting leadership team with our all-star volunteers Katie, Rodrigo and Shraddha. We meet every other Friday for 30 min to touch base and share responsibilities to organize news activities for our members. If you want to join the team, simply email Phil or Arjun and we will add you to the call.

In the News

By Srishti Rawal

General

• Audit of FAA’s STC Process: The U.S. DOT’s Inspector General has initiated an audit to address delays and inconsistencies in the FAA’s Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval process, ensuring uniformity across regions. (also covered on AIN)
• CAE’s New Pilot Training App for Apple Vision Pro. CAE’s immersive app for the Vision Pro enhances remote pilot training, debuting on the Bombardier Global 7500.
• Bombardier Global 8000 Production Begins. Bombardier launches its Global 8000, the fastest civil jet since the Concorde, with entry into service slated for 2025.
• Starlink Transforms In-Flight Connectivity: Airlines like Hawaiian, United, and Qatar Airways are rolling out Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet, setting new standards for in-flight connectivity and sparking industry competition.
• Honeywell’s Aspire 350 Hybrid SATCOM Terminal Certified. This new SATCOM system provides pilots with high-speed connectivity and real-time updates, enhancing in-flight efficiency and safety.

eVTOL

• FAA Finalizes Rules for Powered-Lift Aircraft Certification. The FAA’s new regulations pave the way for eVTOL air taxis and piloted powered-lift operations in urban air mobility.
• Lilium Files for Insolvency Protection Amid Funding Setback for eVTOL Development. Lilium seeks insolvency protection after the German parliament denied a €50 million loan, pausing critical funding. Despite this, they aim to conduct full-scale tests of the Lilium Jet in 2025 with a 2026 certification target.

Space

• NASA’s Transition to Commercial LEO Platforms: NASA is exploring flexible strategies for human presence in low Earth orbit as it transitions from the ISS to commercial platforms, focusing on sustainable operations.
• Axiom Space & Prada Unveil Artemis III Spacesuit. In a collaboration of fashion and space tech, Axiom and Prada introduce a flexible, durable spacesuit for NASA’s upcoming lunar mission.
• NASA’s Europa Clipper Launches on a Mission to Jupiter’s Moon. Aiming to explore Europa’s potential for life, the probe will reach its destination in 2030.

For fun

• The End of an Era: In-Flight Magazines Fade into the Sunset. With seat-back screens and personal devices now standard, traditional in-flight magazines are disappearing, marking the end of a tactile, shared travel ritual.