Application of the TRL scale to planning of complex science and technology programs in aviation

Article describes the approach to selection of technology development directions during planning of complex science and technology programs in aviation. The approach involves identifying (1) product requirements, (2) alternative product concepts to meet the requirements and (3) technology portfolios and their comparison by risks, costs and time required to reach implementation readiness status. The results of testing the approach are presented in respect to the TRL-based ranking of alternative concepts of future general aviation aircraft by relative level of technical risks