This course provides an overview of rotary wing aircraft flying qualities flight testing. The main stability and control subjects are covered through the review of helicopter static and dynamic stability (longitudinal, lateral and directional), including low speed regime, aerodynamic derivatives and rotor dynamics. The principles and sources of helicopter vibration are also covered. Specific flight test lectures are included for flight controls mechanical characteristics (FCMC), autorotation and helicopter category A operations. Instruction focuses on flight test methods, test planning, data acquisition and analysis. The course includes a mixture of theoretical lectures and tutorials/workshops where students are presented to the flight test techniques using simulation tools. Participants are also introduced to civil specification for rotary wing aircraft (CS27/29), military specifications, specially ADS-33E-PRF, 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
- Rotor Dynamics
- Longitudinal Static Stability
- Longitudinal Manoeuvre Stability
- Longitudinal Dynamic Stability
- Lateral and Directional Static Stability
- Lateral and Directional Dynamic Stability
- Low Speed
- Handling Qualities
- Helicopter Vibration
- Category A Operations
Start date: Pre-recorded lectures on-demand
Duration: 65+ hours – optional on-site flying week(s) available on demand at extra cost