*Covers lightplane performance flight testing methods, measures, and computer applications *Includes CD-ROM with sample spreadsheets containing equations to help readers perform their own flight tests *Describes GPS (Global Positioning System) test method for airspeed calibration and rapid-wind camera method for takeoff performance

Once a plane is built it must be flight tested and pass to be certified for legal flight. This book tells you how to conduct performance flight tests, how to collect the data and how to crunch it using MS Excel, and how to read the results. It includes lightplane performance testing methods, measures and computer applications for pilots, students, engineers and builders. The CD contains example spreadsheets containing equations that readers can use to reduce their own data and manipulate for corrections.

Including step-by-step instructions for testing homebuilt aircraft, the diagrams and illustrations in this guide demonstrate how to get maximum performance with minimum risk.

Introduction to Flight Testing Introduction to Flight Testing Provides an introduction to the basic flight testing methods employed on general aviation aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles Introduction to Flight Testing provides a concise introduction to the basic flight testing methods employed on general aviation aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles for courses in aeronautical engineering. There is particular emphasis on the use of modern on-board instruments and inexpensive, off-the-shelf portable devices that make flight testing accessible to nearly any student. This text presents a clear articulation of standard methods for measuring aircraft performance characteristics. Topics covered include aircraft and instruments, digital data acquisition techniques, flight test planning, the standard atmosphere, uncertainty analysis, level flight performance, airspeed calibration, stall, climb and glide, take-off and landing, level turn, static and dynamic longitudinal stability, lateral-directional stability, and flight testing of unmanned aircraft systems. Unique to this book is a detailed discussion of digital data acquisition (DAQ) techniques, which are an integral part of modern flight test programs. This treatment includes discussion of the analog-to-digital conversion, sample rate, aliasing, and filtering. These critical details provide the flight test engineer with the insight needed to understand the capabilities and limitations of digital DAQ. Key features: Provides an introduction to the basic flight testing methods and instrumentation employed on general aviation aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles. Includes examples of flight testing on general aviation aircraft such as Cirrus, Diamond, and Cessna aircraft, along with unmanned aircraft vehicles. Suitable for courses on Aircraft Flight Test Engineering. Introduction to Flight Testing provides resources and guidance for practitioners in the rapidly-developing field of drone performance flight test and the general aviation flight test community.

This official aviation publication presents suggestions and safety-related recommendations to assist amateur and ultralight builders in developing individualized aircraft flight test plans.

Performance