A Founder Letter on Editorial Policy
Let’s talk about our editorial policy.
It might seem bizarre and sanctimonious for UDS Aviation to have an editorial policy, but UDS Aviation does have an editorial policy. And yes, it might seem a little strange to make a formal memo about something that, ideally, should just be common sense: tell the truth, credit sources, don’t publish junk. If there was a signal to noise ratio for internet information, we’d be on the cusp of a total collapse of integrity as the public is overwhelmed by garbage content. That being said, you’re unlikely to find breaking news on our news section. When we publish, we want to be sure that we’re adding to the public’s understanding of the aerospace industry, in the markets, conflicts, and technologies that we analyze.
Today, there are no shortage of slop farms pushing out AI-generated sludge, SEO bait, and ad-stuffed click farms even on supposedly professional news sites, common sense isn’t enough. If UDS Aviation is going to stand for anything, it has to stand for clarity, credibility, and an editorial standard that doesn’t waste people’s time.
UDS Aviation’s website is designed and intended to be a refuge from the growing cacophony of clickbait content, clearly and comprehensively providing insight on the topics we cover, while restricting ads and other intrusive elements. Like anything in aviation, it comes in attention to detail and while we have a long way to go the passion that drives our mission is hopefully evident in the product we produce.
What That Means for Us
- Facts must be sourced. No speculation presented as certainty. If we don’t know, we say so. We will use degrees of confidence to rate our analysis and explain our reasoning.
- We are independent. That means no pay-to-play press, no sponsored coverage disguised as reporting, and no unspoken favors. Many outlets get undisclosed “briefings” and talking points push agendas on unwitting audiences this way.
- We use government imagery, not government messaging. Public domain assets (like from DVIDS) help tell the story, but we remain editorially separate from any government policy or agenda.
- When we make a mistake, we fix it, promptly and clearly. Corrections are part of the job, not a mark of failure. One can’t help but be humbled at some point in an aviation career, we’re open to feedback from our audience as there is always someone that knows more out there.
Why It Matters
Anyone can start a blog. Anyone can post AI-generated content and call it analysis. But if UDS Aviation is going to grow into what I know it can be: a trusted, sharp, and visually powerful source of aerospace intelligence charting a positive path for mankind’s relationship to flight. We have to earn trust one post at a time.
