Are Aerospace and Aviation the Same? What’s the Difference?

Aerospace and aviation are terms that are frequently used as if they mean the same thing. While they are closely connected, each refers to a different area of the industry. Understanding the differences is important not only for those considering a career in these fields, but also for companies hiring talent or seeking project support. 

What Is Aviation?

Aviation specifically refers to the operation of aircraft within Earth’s atmosphere. It covers all aspects of air travel, including: 

• Commercial flights (passenger airlines) 

• Cargo and freight transport 

• Military air operations 

• Airport management 

• Air traffic control 

• Aircraft maintenance and engineering 

In essence, aviation is focused on aircraft operation, logistics, infrastructure, and flight safety. It’s a sector dedicated to enabling and supporting safe and efficient air travel, both civilian and military. 

Careers in Aviation 

Aviation careers range from pilots and flight engineers to aircraft maintenance technicians and airport planners. As global air travel increases, so does the demand for skilled aviation professionals. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), air passenger numbers are expected to reach 4.35 billion in 2023, reinforcing the need for a strong aviation workforce. 

Discover VHR’s Aviation & Aerospace services: https://www.v-hr.com/aerospace-aviation 

What Is Aerospace?

Aerospace is a broader term. It encompasses aviation but also includes the design, development, and production of vehicles and technologies for travel beyond Earth’s atmosphere. 

Key areas of aerospace include: 

• Aircraft design and manufacturing 

• Satellites and space exploration technology 

• Defence systems (e.g. missile guidance systems) 

• Research and development of future air and space vehicles 

Aerospace spans both aeronautics (air travel within Earth’s atmosphere) and astronautics (space travel). It is heavily research and engineering-led, often working at the cutting edge of materials, propulsion, and automation.

Careers in Aerospace

Careers in aerospace typically require a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Roles range from aerospace engineers and systems designers to avionics specialists and project managers. 

With organisations such as NASA and private companies investing heavily in commercial spaceflight and satellite technology, the sector is expected to grow rapidly and offer a wealth of opportunities to skilled professionals. 

Key Differences Between Aerospace and Aviation

While aviation is a subset of aerospace, not all aerospace professionals work in aviation, and not all aviation professionals need aerospace expertise. 

Why the Distinction Matters for Hiring 

Whether you’re an engineer looking for a new challenge or a business seeking project-critical expertise, knowing the difference between aerospace and aviation helps target the right talent or opportunity. For example: 

• Hiring an aerospace systems engineer requires a background in spacecraft and high-altitude technology. 

• Recruiting an aviation maintenance technician needs skills in operational aircraft safety and compliance. 

At VHR, we specialise in technical recruitment across both aerospace and aviation, placing highly skilled professionals in over 50 countries across commercial aviation, defence aviation, and cutting-edge aerospace projects. 

Looking to Hire or Get Hired?

If you're looking for talent in the aerospace or aviation sectors, or considering a career move within either, our global network and industry-specific expertise can help you find the perfect match. 

Explore current Aerospace & Aviation jobs 
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Learn More

Interested in further insights? Explore more of our blogs: 

• Which Country has the Best Fighter Jets in the World 

• A day in the Life of an Aircraft Maintenance Technician 

• How to Qualify as a Pilot