Optimal Trajectories in Atmospheric Flight deals with the optimization of trajectories in atmospheric flight. The book begins with a simple treatment of functional optimization followed by a discussion of switching theory. It then presents the derivation of the general equations of motion along with the basic knowledge in aerodynamics and propulsion necessary for the analysis of atmospheric flight trajectories. It goes on to the study of optimal trajectories by providing the general properties of the optimal aerodynamic controls and the integrals of motion. This is followed by discussions of high subsonic and supersonic flight, and approximation techniques to reduce the order of the problem for a fast computation of the optimal trajectory. The final chapters present analyses of optimal reentry trajectories and orbital maneuvers. This book is intended as a reference text for scientists and engineers wanting to get into the subject of optimal trajectories in atmospheric flight. If used for teaching purposes, the book is written in a self-contained way so that a selective use of the material is at the discretion of the lecturer. The first 11 chapters are sufficient for a one-semester course with emphasis on optimal maneuvers of high performance aircraft.

This book discusses aircraft flight performance, focusing on commercial aircraft but also considering examples of high-performance military aircraft. The framework is a multidisciplinary engineering analysis, fully supported by flight simulation, with software validation at several levels. The book covers topics such as geometrical configurations, configuration aerodynamics and determination of aerodynamic derivatives, weight engineering, propulsion systems (gas turbine engines and propellers), aircraft trim, flight envelopes, mission analysis, trajectory optimisation, aircraft noise, noise trajectories and analysis of environmental performance. A unique feature of this book is the discussion and analysis of the environmental performance of the aircraft, focusing on topics such as aircraft noise and carbon dioxide emissions.

Now in a revised fourth edition, this course-tested textbook explains the basic principles and underlying theory of the core avionic systems in modern civil and military aircraft. The new edition includes extensive revisions on the latest developments in helmet-mounted displays (HMDs), the use of helmet-mounted rate gyros for helmet tracking, HUD/HMD optical waveguide system technology, and the latest advances on replacing CRTs with solid state displays in HUDs. Updates on controls and fly-by-wire include a section on civil aircraft to cover the Airbus A350 and the advances in its flight control system over the Airbus A380. A new section on automatic flight control of vectored thrust aircraft covers the BAE Systems Harrier and the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning 2 Joint Strike Fighter. Detailed coverage is provided for F-35B flight control systems for vertical landing. Introduction to Avionic Systems, Fourth Edition is an ideal textbook for undergraduate and graduate courses in avionics and aeronautical engineering, as well as professional development and training courses for post-graduates entering the aerospace industry from a wide range of technical backgrounds and practicing engineers at all levels who require an understanding of avionic systems, aircraft navigation, flight control, and data transmission and systems.