This online course provides an overview of fixed wing aircraft flying qualities flight testing. Instruction focuses on flying qualities flight test methods, test planning, data acquisition and analysis. The main stability and control and handling qualities subjects are covered including longitudinal, lateral, directional static and dynamic stability, roll performance, stall characteristics and spinning and closed loop handling qualities. Participants are introduced to both military and civil specification for fixed wing aircraft (CS23/25) aircraft and methods of demonstrating compliance when testing a new or modified aircraft.
This course includes a personal Welcome and Overview session (1/2 hour) and a Q&A and Debrief session (1 hour) with an instructor on the academic team.
Topics:
- Introduction to Flight Test
- Reference Systems, Aircraft Modes of Motion and Aerodynamic Derivatives
- Flight Control Mechanical Characteristics
- Longitudinal Static Stability
- Longitudinal Manoeuvre Stability
- Longitudinal Dynamic Stability
- Lateral and Directional Static Stability
- Lateral and Directional Dynamic Stability
- Rolling Performance
- Asymmetric Power Flight
- Stall and Spinning
- Aeroelasticity and Flutter
- Closed-loop Handling Qualities
Start date: Pre-recorded lectures on-demand
Duration: 50+ hours – optional on-site flying week(s) available on demand at extra cost