Delta TechOps Engineer Revolutionizing Aircraft Inspection with Drones

Emma Galarza, a senior engineer at Delta TechOps, is redefining aircraft maintenance with her distinctive role – piloting drones that conduct meticulous inspections hovering over airplanes. A key member of the Technology Development team, Galarza is pioneering autonomous drone technology to enhance the efficiency and safety of aircraft maintenance processes.

Armed with a mechanical engineering degree from the esteemed Georgia Institute of Technology, Galarza’s fascination with cutting-edge technology and its intersection with human interaction has been a driving force in her journey. However, it was during her year-long co-op experience with Delta TechOps while in college that she discovered her affinity for aviation.

“Through working for Delta, I unearthed my passion for aerospace,” Galarza shared, reflecting on her early exposure to the aviation industry.

Returning to the Delta family in January 2023 after a hiatus, Galarza described her reentry as the pinnacle of her career. She swiftly embraced the opportunity, inspired by Delta’s exceptional culture and the prospect of collaborating once again with the colleagues and leaders she knew from her co-op tenure. Galarza noted that Delta’s unique culture thrives on the synergy of brilliant minds and genuine humility.

At the forefront of innovation, Galarza and her team harness drones to conduct inspections on aircraft, notably the Airbus A350-900, which typically necessitates up to 16 hours of manual inspection. Drones, however, accomplish this task in a mere 90 minutes by capturing high-resolution images of the aircraft. This approach significantly curtails labor hours and reduces the potential for human error.

Moreover, the application of drones allows inspectors to access intricate or hazardous areas that might pose challenges for human intervention, such as the aircraft’s wings or underbelly.

As Delta gears up to launch drone-driven inspections this year, Galarza stands at the vanguard of this pioneering initiative. Her enthusiasm is palpable as she contributes to Delta’s unwavering commitment to safety and service excellence. The integration of drones into aircraft maintenance is poised to revolutionize the industry, propelled by Galarza’s dedication and vision.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, news.delta.com, mainblades.com