Blockchains Could Improve Aviation Docs for Pilots

The underlying technology behind cryptocurrency has potential benefits for aviation.

Jason Depew

Thursday, December 09, 2021 at 10:05 AM ET

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Could blockchains help make paperwork easier to deal with? Jason Depew thinks so. Credit: Adobe Stock

Key Takeaways:

Blockchain technology offers a secure, immutable, and transparent digital ledger to replace archaic paper-based systems in aviation.
It can digitize pilot and medical certificates, streamlining verification for FAA inspections, FBO rentals, and job applications while preventing forgery and loss.
Blockchain-based "cryptologs" would provide immutable and verifiable records for aircraft maintenance and pilot flight hours, preventing doctoring and ensuring data integrity and protection.
Ultimately, blockchain promises to make aviation more secure, simplify processes for pilots, and enhance the FAA's effectiveness through reliable and distributed record-keeping.

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We’ve told you that cryptocurrency is not an investment. But a blockchain—the underlying technology behind cryptocurrency—could help make life a lot easier for pilots.

What is a Blockchain?

It’s a ledger, made visible to the entire world, and stored on a wide network of computers. Some brilliant encryption protocols protect the integrity of all the data on the blockchain, making it inordinately difficult for someone to alter any records after they’ve been logged.