Figure 9. An example of the finalized flight test cards, broken down into major sections. flight steps describe actions taken before the aircraft is flown. The departure section describes takeoff and climb procedures. Most tests are preceded by a Cruise section which details pre-test procedures. The test itself is broken into however many major flight phases it covers, including climbs, descents, and cruise legs. Each test includes a post-test Landing section which provides details on landing and securing the aircraft. Finally, a Post Flight section instructs test personnel on how to extract and interpret the data gathered during the test, as well as corrective steps that need to be taken before the next flight. Safety takes priority over following the test plan, so the pilot is to use their own discretion in deciding whether or a particular step is safe to follow. Since phase I flight testing is more about establishing the handling characteristics of the aircraft than obtaining perfect data, a flight test can still be considered successful despite some modifications to its procedure. However, the pilot should record any discrepancies between the written steps and the steps actually taken. C. Notes Section Every single test card has a large notes section where the pilot or other flight crew can record anything about the test flight. These notes might be comprised by amendments to certain steps, notes on dangerous conditions, or anything else. Additionally, some tests include pre-written notes to the pilot about specific dangers that might be encountered during the test.
Flight #: 1 – FIRST TEST FLIGHT Pilot: Date: Time: Objectives: • Determine Engine Reliability • Determine Basic Flight Control Characteristics Check Action DEPARTURE Do not use flaps Do not change throttle settings, mixture, or fuel tanks Remain above the airport Climb out at 70 MPH Climb to 4000’ MSL and level off CRUISE Limit prop RPM to 2300 Check engine gauges especially CHT and Oil Temp Maintain level flight Yaw rudder left and right 5 degrees 360 degree clearing turns (10 degrees bank) 360 degree clearing turns (20 degrees bank) Notes
Check Action SLOW FLIGHT Climb to 6000' MSL Slowly decrease speed to 55 MPH – maintain altitude 360 degree clearing turns at 20 degrees bank Keep ball centered using rudder Increase speed to 60 MPH Extend flaps Slowly decrease speed to 55 MPH – maintain altitude 360 degree clearing turns at 20 degrees bank Keep ball centered using rudder Check engine temperatures and pressures Increase engine rpm to cruise setting (2300 RPM) LANDING Perform approach checklist Fly pattern at 60 MPH Extend flaps Taxi back to hangar POST FLIGHT Download recorded EFIS data Prepare corrective action list Record fuel and oil consumption Pull cowlings and inspect engine carefully Inspect airframe carefully Notes
Check Action ACCELERATED STALLS 15 Degree bank, slow until stalls: Repeat w/ 30, 45, 60 DESCENT RATE Descend at 85 MPH, Record Rate. Record loss of elevation w/ 90, 180, 360 degree turns POST FLIGHT Download recorded EFIS data Prepare corrective action list Record fuel and oil consumption Notes Weight IAS (MPH) Descent Rate (FPM) 90 Turn 180 Turn 360 Turn 50 lb 85 Weight Fuel Consumption Oil Consumption 50 lb