Although simulators can't always predict what will happen in the real world, they do help reduce the risk of flight testing. They work well in the middle of the envelope, but it's out at the ragged edges, where spins and catapult tests push the edge of the envelope, that simulators typically can't replicate the aircraft. Even with increased development for simulators in the future, there will still be a great need for flight testing. As systems become more complicated and harder to test on simulation equipment, testers must ensure everything is safe for fleet use. According to Miller, it's not just technology that has increased testing safety.
Students are much safer and more professional today.
He recalls that in his student days there were fewer safety rules. Now, as an instructor he feels it's part of his job to tell the stories of how accidents happened because of the lack of rules. It's about teaching students to avoid the old mistakes, and encouraging them to follow the rules that have been developed for safety. There are always challenges within the perimeter the systems dictate, so even the most mundane test can be dangerous. The experience of testing aircraft isn't just about responsibility and risk, it also affords the opportunity to fly and have a rewarding career.