Course Description
An intensive overview of the methods used to make performance evaluations of propeller driven aircraft. Emphasis is placed on subsonic aerodynamics, pitot statics and reciprocating engine theory.
Anticipated Student Academic Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course of instruction, the student will have a basic understanding of performance flight test procedures, techniques, and data analysis. He/she will:
Understand
1. The fundamentals of dimensional analysis.
2. Subsonic aerodynamics principles.
3. Pitot static principles & PEC requirements.
4. Reciprocating engine and propeller theory.
5. Take-off and landing theory & requirements.
Be Familiar with
6. Standard atmosphere and the associated tables.
Know
7. How a drag polar is developed.
8. How to measure and evaluate pitot static position errors.
9. How to test & evaluate cruise performance of propeller driven aircraft.
10. How to test & evaluate take-off and landing performance.
11. How to measure the weight and center of gravity of an aircraft.
Sequence of Instruction
Performance Testing Overview
Dimensional Analysis
Subsonic Aerodynamics - Lift
Subsonic Aerodynamics Drag
Drag Polars
Pitot-Static Theory
Position Error Correction (PEC) Requirements & Flight Test Techniques
Reciprocating Engines
Propeller Theory
Propeller Cruise Performance Theory
Takeoff & Landing Performance Theory
Tutorials (Dimensional Analysis, Subsonic Aerodynamics, (PEC), Propeller Cruise)
Exams
Subsonic Aerodynamics
PEC/Prop Cruise
Texts and Reference Materials
NTPS Professional Course Textbook Series, Vol. II, “Aerodynamics for Flight Testers”
NTPS Professional Course Textbook Series, Vol. III, “Fixed-Wing Performance Flight Testing”
Instructional Methodology
Lectures
Process of Evaluation
Examinations
