Planning of Flight Load Validation Test for Civil Transport Aircraft

Abstract

For planning the flight load survey, several key points are stated in this paper by following sequence: 1. Stage selection for flight load survey as a constituent part of the whole process of flight tests- conducting as earlier as possible, as well as some relationship with other test subjects are accounted for; 2. Choosing proper test methods, such as measurements by strain gages or by pressure distribution, depending on characteristics of different structures, and then conducting the modifications; 3. Ground calibration tests to give the load equations revealing the relationship between strain gage bridges and net loads; 4. Choosing proper flight matrix and confirming the validity criteria for different kind of maneuver, with typical time history diagrams cited to show some flight maneuvers such as roller coaster, horizontal tail-elevator trade, yaw and rolling; 5. Arrangements of flight test details such as choosing proper time and airspace for flight, real-time monitoring of key parameters, communicating with pilots during the flight, and so on; 6. Analysis of test data, and validations of design methods to show compliance with relevant airworthiness regulations, or further correction of the methods.