Introduction to Flight Test Engineering

This volume provides a thorough overview on the implications of new technologies in the planning and shaping of cost effective flight testing, and the skill requirements of the work force. The value of the book is enhanced by a series of figures and chronological tables. Flight testing is a complex process. It requires many different technical skills, as well as good judgement in managing the process. Full scale flight tests are required to provide the credibility designers need to create the latest technological advances. The contents of this book emphasise how risks can be minimized by careful test planning. Flight testing piloted and unmanned aerospace vehicles is an interdisciplinary process fundamental to the development of new systems and to the advancement of aeronautical knowledge. Engineers from all branches of the engineering sciences are needed to successfully put a new system through a thorough and complete flight test program. Flight testing is one of the most exciting and at the same time, challenging, of all engineering problems. Early and meticulous planning is mandatory to keep safety, cost, and schedule considerations in balance.
Discipline is essential throughout the process to stick to the plan and to make judicious revisions to it. Research workers involved in flight testing will find in this volume many perspectives with which to augment their projects.