John H Hansen

John H. Hansen is an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), part of Air University at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He is affiliated with the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics within the Graduate School of Engineering and Management. His work bridges theoretical control systems with experimental flight test applications.

Education:

• BS in Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, 2006
• MS in Aeronautical Engineering, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2008
• MS in Flight Test Engineering, Air Force Test Pilot School, 2013
• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, University of Michigan, 2021

His research focuses on optimal control theory, aeroservoelasticity, and flexible aircraft dynamics, with additional expertise in explosives and warhead design. His teaching includes air weapons systems and related engineering topics. He is an active member of AIAA and Sigma Gamma Tau.

The available publications indicate a strong trend in control allocation strategies for load alleviation in next-generation flexible aircraft, particularly high-altitude platforms. His work combines advanced control theory with practical flight test validation, emphasizing structural integrity and performance under dynamic loads.

Professional Affiliations:

• AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics)
• Sigma Gamma Tau (Aerospace Engineering Honor Society)

Major Hansen advises on aerospace controls and weapons systems education. While specific grants are not listed, his research aligns with defense-focused aerospace innovation, likely supported by Air Force research funding. His dual expertise in flight testing and control systems positions him as a key contributor to military aerospace technology development.

He is associated with the aerospace research ecosystem at AFIT, which collaborates with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and other defense test agencies. His work likely contributes to future development of unmanned and high-altitude aircraft systems.