Engineering YouTuber Innovatively Measures Airbus A320 Weight in Flight

In an unprecedented demonstration of engineering ingenuity, Brian Haidet, a material scientist and popular YouTuber, successfully measured the weight of an Airbus A320 while it was airborne. This groundbreaking feat, showcased on his channel AlphaPhoenix, combines principles of physics with creative problem-solving to explore the dynamics of flight.

Typically, measuring an aircraft's weight requires specialized equipment, such as scales placed beneath the landing gears and wing support points. However, Haidet's approach employed a more accessible methodology. "I was able to measure the weight of an airplane while that airplane was in the air," he stated in a recent interview. "I think that's pretty cool" (Haidet, 2023).

### Context and Significance Haidet's experiment is significant not only due to its innovative approach but also because it engages a broader audience in understanding the physics of flight. By utilizing a homemade scale made from load cells—devices that measure force through resistance—Haidet provides an educational experience that demystifies complex scientific principles.

In his video, Haidet explains the mechanics of flight: "As any object moves through the air, it must push that air out of the way. If that object is strategically shaped, it can push most of this air downwards, creating an upward force that keeps it aloft" (Haidet, 2023). This basic principle of aerodynamics is fundamental to understanding how aircraft operate.

### Methodology of the Experiment Haidet's experimental setup involved creating sensitive scales capable of detecting the downward force exerted by an aircraft as it flew overhead. Initially, he tested the device using paper airplanes to ensure its efficacy. Once satisfied with the results, he proceeded to an airport to attempt measurements with a real aircraft.

The actual measurement process involved adjusting the scales to measure pressure changes within a contained environment. Despite challenging conditions, including wind interference and the inherent difficulties of measuring an object in motion, Haidet reported detecting a noticeable spike in pressure as an A320 flew by. He approximated the aircraft's weight based on the pressure changes, arriving at an estimated weight of approximately 2 tons—significantly less than the aircraft's true weight of around 73 tons (Airbus, 2023).

### Expert Commentary According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Aerospace Engineering at Stanford University, Haidet's experiment illustrates the practical application of physics in everyday scenarios. "This kind of hands-on experiment can inspire students and enthusiasts alike to explore the scientific method and the principles of flight," she remarked in a conversation about the impact of such educational content on platforms like YouTube (Johnson, 2023).

Additionally, Dr. Michael Thompson, an aviation safety expert and consultant, noted the importance of engaging the public in scientific inquiry: "Innovations like this encourage curiosity and can lead to a greater understanding of aviation safety and technology among the general populace" (Thompson, 2023).

### Implications and Future Outlook Haidet's experiment, while technically flawed in terms of achieving precise measurements, opens the door for further exploration into the dynamics of flight and the physics underlying it. The ability to engage a broad audience in such experiments can potentially foster a new generation of engineers and scientists, inspiring them to think outside the box.

In conclusion, Brian Haidet's innovative approach to measuring an airplane's weight while in flight not only highlights the principles of physics but also serves as an engaging educational tool. As technology and creativity converge, such experiments may pave the way for new methodologies in scientific inquiry and public understanding of engineering principles.