GENERIC FLIGHT TEST REPORT GUIDE

FOR

CERTIFICATION COMPLIANCE ASSESSMENT

OF SIMPLE LIGHT FIXED WING AIRCRAFT
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

PART 1 – AIRWORTHINESS FLIGHT TYPE REQUIREMENTS

1. Introduction 1-1

2. General Requirements 1-4

3. Control Systems 1-7

4. Pilot Compartment 1-9

5. Ventilation 1-13

6. Fuel System 1-14

7. Carburettor Air Heat Rise 1-15

8. Engine Cooling 1-16

9. Propeller Speed 1-18

10. Ground and Water Handling 1-19

11. Airspeed Calibration 1-20

12. Stall Speeds 1-22

13. Stall Characteristics 1-25

14. Controllability and Manoeuvrability 1-27

15. Trim 1-31

16. Stability 1-32

17. Spinning 1-37

18. Vibration and Buffeting 1-38

19. Flutter 1-39

20. Take-Off Distance 1-40

21. Climb Performance 1-42

22. Glide Performance 1-44

23. Landing Distance 1-45

PART 2 – FLIGHT TEST REPORT GUIDE

1. Introduction 2-1

2. Flight Test Log 2-4

3. Certification Data 2-5

4. Test Configurations 2-11

5. Equipment and Flight Operations 2-13

6. Ventilation 2-18

7. Powerplant 2-20

8. Ground and Water Handling 2-23

9. Airspeed Calibration 2-25

10. Stall Speeds 2-26

11. Stall Characteristics 2-28

12. Controllability and Manoeuvrability 2-37

13. Trim 2-Error!

Bookmark not defined.

14. Stability 2-44

15. Spinning 2-51

16. Vibration and Buffeting 2-53

May 2005
 17. Flutter 2-54

18. Take-Off Distance 2-55

19. Climb Performance 2-56

20. Glide Performance 2-60

21. Landing Distance 2-61

Annexes

A. Terms and Abbreviations

B. Cooling Climb Test Data

C. Airspeed System Calibration Test Data

D. Longitudinal Static Stability

E. Take-Off Performance Data

F. Climb Performance Data

G. Glide Performance Data

H. Landing Performance Data

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-1

PART 1 – AIRWORTHINESS FLIGHT TYPE REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION

1. Background

The aircraft type certification process, as applicable in Australia, is set out under Civil
Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) Part 21 and explained further at Advisory
Circular (AC) 21-13(0) – Australian Designed Aircraft – Type Certification. A major
phase in any aircraft development project is that involving the flight testing. AC 21-
13(0) divides this phase into three supplementary segments – the developmental test
flying, the manufacturer’s test flying to demonstrate that the aircraft meets the
requirements of the applicable airworthiness standard, and any further testing carried
out by CASA to validate the compliance claims of the manufacturer. Each of these
flight test segments should result in the production of a Flight Test Report (FTR). In
addition, other aircraft production projects that do not necessarily progress ultimately
to the certification stage, for example those undertaken by amateur-builders, should
also involve the generation of reports as they progress through their flight test
phases. While there is no designated or required format for any of these flight test
reports this document provides a template, and some basic guidance, that may be
adapted for the task.

2. Purpose

This document includes background information and guidance for planning or

checking compliance with those parts of the basic airworthiness standards requiring
flight tests and pilot judgements. It then presents a Flight Test Report Guide (FTRG)
that can be used as the basis for producing either a general flight test report or one
specifically aimed at satisfying the type certification process (CASR 21.035 refers).
Notwithstanding, the information provided herein is neither mandatory nor regulatory
in nature and does not constitute a regulation or order. It is intended as an optional
ready reference for manufacturers, amateur-builders, test pilots (TPs), CASA
evaluation engineers and authorised persons.

3. Scope

Flight test items of interest during the evaluation of small fixed-wing aircraft are
covered. Since all such aircraft are to some extent unique some sections of the
guide may not be applicable. Conversely some relevant information, for example
multi-engine considerations, may not be included. Before commencing any flight test
program, the manufacturer or amateur-builder is encouraged to consult the Authority
or the authorised person to determine which sections are relevant to the particular
aircraft.

4. Applicability

The FTRG is intended to be generic and adaptable. No attempt is made in the

document to define ‘small fixed-wing aircraft’. The airworthiness standards
referenced at paragraph 6 below give an indication of the category of aircraft to which
the guide may be applicable however additional information will probably be relevant
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-2

when considering those more sophisticated or capable aeroplanes that could be

covered by those standards. The generic nature of this guide should be
acknowledged and if it is to be used in association with a type certification project the
applicable airworthiness standard and its relevant guidance material must be
consulted to ensure the actual requirements are being addressed. The currency
of the information in this guide, when compared with that in the applicable
airworthiness standard, cannot be guaranteed. In addition, certification projects will
almost certainly require the provision of supplementary or supporting information.

5. Contents

The document contains two parts. This first provides basic flight test guidance
information that can be used as background to the actual FTRG which comprises the
second.

6. Certification Standards

The information provided in Part 1 and the FTRG itself are meant to be ‘generic’. It
does not relate specifically to any one certification airworthiness standard. However
its basis lies in the following five standards:

a. Civil Aviation Orders – Section 101.55 (CAO 101.55),

b. Civil Aviation Orders – Section 101.28 (CAO 101.28),

c. British Civil Airworthiness Requirements – Section S (BCAR-S),

d. European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) – Certification Specification

for Very Light Aeroplanes (CS-VLA), and

e. Federal Aviation Regulations (of the USA) Part 23 (FAR 23).

7. References

The primary and best reference for flight test information relating to small aeroplanes
is AC 23-8B – Flight Test Guide for Certification of Part 23 Airplanes, published by
the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). AC 23-8B is the major source of the
advisory and flight test technique information reproduced in this guide.

FAA Advisory Circular 23-15A – Small Airplane Certification Compliance Program

provides advice on acceptable means of meeting FAR 23 requirements for simple
light aircraft.

CASA AC 21-40(0) – Measurement of Airspeed in Light Aircraft – Certification

Requirements, provides information regarding the installation and calibration of
airspeed measuring systems.

For amateur builders guidance on developmental flight test programs (as opposed to
certification flight testing) can be obtained from the FAA Amateur Built Aircraft Flight
Testing Handbook (AC 90-89A). If this Handbook is used as the basis of a test plan
then sufficient data should be gathered to generate an effective Flight Test Report.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-3

The Sports Aircraft Association of Australia (SAAA) also publishes a useful ‘SAAA
Flight Test Guide’.

A specific version of this FTRG, applicable to amateur-built aircraft constructed in

accordance with CAO 101.28 is provided as the Flight Test Guide for Assessment of
Amateur-Built Aircraft Accepted under an ABAA (Amateur-Built Aircraft Acceptance).

CASA AC 21-47(0) – Flight Test Safety provides general safety information as well
as guidance regarding hazard analysis / risk management procedures.

Terms and abbreviations used in this document are defined at Annex A.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-4

SECTION 2 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Operating Limitations

Aircraft operating limitations should have been established. These limitations will
include all those upon which the aircraft design is based and all those that are
applicable to:

a. weight and centre of gravity (CG) limits,

b. loading,

c. powerplant,

d. airspeed, and

e. flight handling including aerobatic manoeuvres.

2. Weight and CG Limits

The maximum weight must have been established such that it is:

a. Not more than:

(1) the highest weight selected by the applicant, or

(2) the design maximum weight, which is the highest weight at which
compliance with each applicable structural loading condition and
each applicable flight requirement is shown.

b. Assuming a weight of 77 kg for each occupant of each seat, not less

than the weight which results from the empty weight of the aeroplane,
plus required minimum equipment, plus:

(1) the required minimum crew and fuel and oil to full tank capacity,
or

(2) each seat occupied, oil to full tank capacity and fuel for one half
hour operation at rated maximum continuous power (MCP).

The approved maximum weight should be included in the appropriate type data
package.

The ranges of weight and CG within which the aeroplane is to be safely operable
must have been established and should be as demonstrated by the applicant.

The CG range must not be less than that which corresponds to the weight of each
occupant, varying between a minimum of 55 kg for the pilot alone up to the maximum
placarded weight for a pilot and passengers, together with a variation in fuel contents
from zero to full fuel. The placarded maximum occupant weight must not be less
than 77 kg per person.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-5

The empty weight and corresponding CG must be determined by weighing the test
aeroplane:

a. With:

(1) fixed ballast,

(2) required minimum equipment,

(3) unusable fuel, maximum oil and, where appropriate, engine

coolant and hydraulic fluid.

b. Excluding:

(1) weight of occupants, and

(2) other readily removable items of load.

The condition of the aeroplane at the time of determining empty weight must be one
that is well defined and easily repeated.

The minimum weight (the lowest weight at which compliance with each applicable
requirement has been shown) must have been established such that it is not more
than the sum of:

a. the empty weight,

b. the weight of the minimum crew (assuming a weight of 77 kg for each

crew member), and

c. the fuel necessary for half an hour of operation at rated maximum

continuous power.

Each requirement must be met by test on the aircraft at the most adverse
combination of weight and CG within the range of loading conditions for which
certification was or is to be demonstrated.

3. Ground Tests

Prior to flight testing, the following ground tests should be conducted:

a. Measurement of:

(1) control circuit stiffness and stretch,

(2) control circuit friction,

(3) control cable tension of closed control circuits, and

(4) maximum deflection of control surfaces, wing flaps and their

respective cockpit controls.

b. All ground functional and systems tests should be completed. FAA AC

90-89A provides excellent guidance on conducting these tests.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-6

4. Instrumentation

For test purposes the aircraft should be equipped with suitable instruments to
conduct the required measurements and observations with appropriate accuracy. If
reliable results cannot be obtained the Authority, or the authorised person, will
require the installation of special test equipment.

At an early stage in the program the accuracy of the instruments and their correction
curves should be determined. Particular attention should be paid to the position error
of the airspeed indicating system. The influence of the configuration of the aeroplane
should also be accounted for in all calibrations. CASA AC 21-40(0) – Measurement
of Airspeed in Light Aircraft – Certification Requirements, should be consulted.

5. Performance

Compliance with performance requirements must be shown at maximum weight for

still air in standard atmosphere at sea-level conditions using engine power not in
excess of the maximum declared for the engine type.

6. Test Pilots

The minimum qualification a pilot must hold to carry out the initial flight testing on an
Australian aircraft is a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) with the appropriate endorsements.
However, flight testing of aircraft, for either development, compliance demonstration
or post construction purposes, is an exacting task and, while the regulations do not
call for the TP to have any specific test flying qualifications, it is recommended that a
pilot with at least some such knowledge and experience be engaged. Further
guidance is contained in CASA AC 21-47(0) and FAA AC 90-89A.

7. Hazard Analysis / Risk Management

There are hazards involved with all flight testing. Some sequences (eg spinning,
flutter) will involve elevated risk levels. This guide does not include specific risk
management information. The user is strongly urged to conduct a detailed Hazard
Analysis / Risk Management exercise as part of the test planning and the ongoing
flight testing processes. Guidance is contained in CASA AC 21-47(0) or can be
gleaned from the Internet using search terms such as ‘flight test risk or hazard
management’. Project managers and pilots are encouraged to contact the CASA TP
for further information or assistance.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-7

SECTION 3 – CONTROL SYSTEMS

1. Requirements

a. Each control must operate easily, smoothly and positively enough to

allow proper performance of its function.

b. Each control system must have stops that positively limit the range of
motion of each movable control surface and prevent over-centre locking
tendencies.

c. Proper precautions must be taken to prevent inadvertent, improper, or

abrupt trim operation. There must be markings near the trim control to
indicate the direction of trim control movement relative to the aeroplane
motion.

d. There must be means to indicate to the pilot the position of the trim
device with respect to the range of adjustment. This means must be
visible to the pilot and must be located and designed to prevent
confusion.

e. If there is a device to lock the control system on the ground there must
be means to;

(1) give unmistakable warning to the pilot when the lock is engaged,
and

(2) prevent the lock from engaging in flight.

f. All control systems must be designed and installed to prevent jamming,

chafing, and interference from baggage, passengers, loose objects, or
freezing of moisture.

g. Each wing flap control must be designed so that, when the flap is
placed in any position upon which compliance with the performance
requirements is based, the flap will not move from that position except
when the control is adjusted – unless movement is demonstrated not to
be hazardous.

h. The pilot forces and rate of movement of the wing flaps at any approved
speed must not impair the operating safety of the aeroplane.

i. There must be means to indicate all flap positions upon which

compliance with the performance requirements are based.

j. The wing flaps must be mechanically interconnected unless the

aeroplane has safe flight characteristics with the wing flaps retracted on
one side and extended on the other.

2. Explanation
ABAA Aircraft - Flight Test Report Guide 8

This section requires an assessment of the aircraft control systems. Compliance with
paragraphs 1.a to 1.f and paragraph 1.i can be shown by inspection. Compliance
with paragraphs 1.g, 1.h and 1.j must be demonstrated through flight test.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-9

SECTION 4 – PILOT COMPARTMENT

1. Requirements

a. The design of the cockpit and the cabin shall be such as to give each
occupant every reasonable chance of escaping serious injury in a
crash.

b. Seats shall not have hard edges or protruding parts which in a crash
could be in a position likely to cause serious head injuries to a person
seated and wearing correctly adjusted restraint equipment.

c. Stowage shall be provided for the flight manual, if required, either in a

container of the glove box type or in a special fixed container easily
accessible to the pilot.

d. The scale graduations of airspeed indicators shall be in knots only with

the scale as close as is practical to the periphery of the dial. The
numbered graduations shall commence at a speed lower than the
power-off indicated stalling speed of the aircraft in the landing
configuration and at the minimum weight operationally possible.

e. The height scale of altimeters shall be graduated in feet.

f. The barometric subscale of sensitive altimeters shall include a

calibration in millibars in increments not exceeding 2 millibars.

g. Magnetic compasses shall be corrected and calibrated in accordance

with Airworthiness Bulletin (AWB) 34-8.

h. A landing gear position indicator is required if the aeroplane has

retractable landing gear.

i. Each pilot, with her seat, safety harness and any adjustable controls
correctly adjusted for normal flight, shall be able to;

(1) without interference produce full and unrestricted movement of

each control which he or she may be required to operate in flight,
both separately and with all practical combinations of movement
of other controls, and

(2) at all positions of each control exert adequate control forces for
the operation to be performed.

j. The cockpit and its equipment must allow each pilot to perform his or
her duties without unreasonable concentration or fatigue.

k. Each cockpit must be designed so that;

(1) there is no glare or reflections that interfere with the pilot’s vision,

(2) the pilot’s field of view is sufficiently extensive, clear and

undistorted for safe operation, and
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-10

(3) rain does not unduly impair the field of view along the flight path
during normal flight and landing.

l. Each cockpit control must be located to provide convenient operation

and to prevent confusion and inadvertent operation.

m. In aeroplanes with dual controls it must be possible to operate the

following secondary controls from each of the pilot seats;

(1) throttle lever,

(2) wing flaps,

(3) trim, and

(4) opening and jettisoning device for the canopy.

n. Secondary controls must maintain any desired position without requiring

constant attention and must not tend to creep under loads or vibration.

o. Fuel valves must be provided to allow the pilot to rapidly shut off fuel to
the engine in flight. The fuel valves must be designed to prevent
inadvertent operation and allow the pilot to rapidly open each valve after
it has been closed.

p. Each fuel valve must have positive stops or effective detents in the ‘on’
and ‘off’ positions.

q. All emergency controls must be coloured red.

r. The cockpit must be designed to allow the occupants to make a rapid

and unimpeded escape in an emergency.

s. Where the airspeed limitations are marked on the airspeed indicator

they shall be as indicated airspeed and the following colour code shall
be used;

(1) for the never-exceed speed, VNE, a red radial line,

(2) for the caution range, a yellow arc extending from the red line
specified in (1) to the upper limit of the green arc specified in (3),

(3) for the normal operating range, a green arc with the lower limit at
the stalling speed or minimum steady flight speed , VS1,
corresponding with the maximum take-off weight and landing
gear and flaps retracted, and the upper limit at the maximum
structural cruising speed or normal operating limit speed, VNO,
and

(4) for the flap operating range, a white arc with the lower limit at
stalling speed or minimum steady flight speed in the landing
configuration, VS0, corresponding with maximum take-off weight,
and the upper limit at the maximum flaps extended speed, VFE.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-11

t. Where the powerplant limitations are marked on the powerplant

instruments, the following colour code shall be used;

(1) each maximum and, if applicable, minimum safe operating limit

shall be marked with a red radial line,

(2) each normal operating range shall be marked with a green arc
not extending beyond the maximum and minimum continuous
safe operating limits,

(3) each take-off and precautionary range shall be marked with a

yellow arc, and

(4) each engine speed range that is restricted because of excessive

vibration shall be marked with a red arc.

u. The aircraft shall contain the following placards;

(1) the required operating limitations placard,

(2) except where aerobatic manoeuvres have been permitted, ‘NO

ACROBATIC MANOEUVRES (INCLUDING SPINS)
PERMITTED’,

(3) where the airspeed indicator is not marked with the colour code
described above a placard listing the airspeed limitations,

(4) where the powerplant instruments are not marked with the colour
code described above a placard listing the powerplant limitations,

(5) identification of the various functional positions of the controls of

the fuel valves or cocks,

(6) on or adjacent to each fuel filler cap – ‘FUEL’ and the minimum
fuel grade designation for the engine and the useable capacity of
the fuel tank,

(7) the compass calibrations,

(8) loading instructions if necessary to ensure that in all conditions of

operation the aircraft CG will remain within limits,

(9) ‘NO SMOKING’ unless;

a) fuel tanks fitted in the cockpit or cabin are isolated by

means of vapour and fuel proof enclosures,

b) the cockpit and cabin linings, floorings and furnishing

materials are at least flame resistant, and

c) self-contained ashtrays are provided, and

(10) where the aircraft is to be operated under an Experimental

Certificate, ‘WARNING. THIS AIRCRAFT IS NOT REQUIRED

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-12

TO COMPLY WITH THE SAFETY REGULATIONS FOR

STANDARD AIRCRAFT. YOU FLY IN THIS AIRCRAFT AT
YOUR OWN RISK.’

v. Each marking and placard required shall be displayed in a conspicuous

and appropriate position, shall be capable of being easily read and shall
not be easily erased, disfigured or obscured.

w. Markings shall be placed on both the inside and the outside of each exit
door, hatch or canopy, indicating the position of the opening handles
with the locks fully engaged and also providing essential operating
instructions for opening. (Note: Where opening is achieved simply by
turning a handle a curved arrow pointing in the correct direction and the
word ‘OPEN’ will provide adequate instruction.)

x. Where the cockpit is enclosed, the opening system must be designed

for simple and easy operation. It must function rapidly and be designed
so that it can be operated by each occupant when strapped in and from
outside the aircraft.

2. Explanation

This section requires an assessment of the aircraft cockpit. Compliance with all
paragraphs can be shown by inspection.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-13

SECTION 5 – VENTILATION

1. Requirements

When there is an enclosed cockpit suitable ventilation must be provided under

normal flying conditions.

Carbon monoxide (CO) concentration must not exceed one part per 20 000 parts of
air (ie 50 parts per million).

2. Explanation

The level of CO contamination must be determined under all normal operating

conditions using an approved CO detector.

3. Procedures

The level of CO contamination must be measured in front of the pilot’s face and at
the instrument panel during ground operations, climb, cruise and approach.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-14

SECTION 6 – FUEL SYSTEM

1. Requirement

The unusable fuel quantity for each tank must be established. It must not be less
than the quantity at which the first evidence of malfunctioning occurs under the most
adverse fuel flow conditions expected during take-off, climb, approach and landing.

2. Procedures

The unusable fuel quantity for each tank may be determined by ground tests that
accurately simulate the following flight attitudes and conditions:

a. Level flight at Maximum Continuous Power (MCP).

b. Climb at MCP at the take-off safety speed with full rudder sideslip.

c. Glide at idle power with landing gear and flap extended at VFE.

d. Glide at idle power with landing gear and flap extended with full rudder
sideslip at 1.3 VS0.

e. Any combination of the above or any other approved manoeuvre that

may be critical to the design.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-15

SECTION 7 – CARBURETTOR AIR HEAT RISE

1. Requirements

The induction system of the installed engine must provide effective means to prevent
and eliminate icing.

Unless this can be achieved by other means it must be shown that in air free of
visible moisture at a temperature of -10C the induction system preheater can provide
a heat rise of 500C relative to the outside air temperature with the engine at 75
percent of MCP.

2. Explanation

Tests of engine induction system icing protection provisions are conducted to ensure
the engine will operate throughout its flight power range.

Experience has shown that it may be difficult to achieve the required heat rise on
uncowled engines and/or on two-stroke engines. In such cases the Authority or
authorised person should be approached for guidance.

3. Procedures

All tests should be conducted in air free from visible moisture.

The temperature sensing probe should be installed in the induction system

downstream of the heater and upstream of the venturi. It may be necessary to make
a tapping into the intake duct.

Heat rise requirements should be met at an outside air temperature (OAT) of -10C at
an altitude where the engine can develop 75 percent MCP. If it is not possible to
obtain these conditions tests should be conducted at the required power setting at
the lowest OAT achievable and reduced to the required condition.

At the test altitude stabilise the aircraft in level flight at 75% MCP with the carburettor
heat control in the cold position. Allow all parameters to stabilise then record
pressure altitude, OAT, RPM, manifold pressure and carburettor inlet air temperature.
Apply full carburettor heat and allow temperatures to stabilise before recording the
new carburettor inlet air temperature. Repeat this procedure two or three times to
ensure consistent results.

Air temperatures should be measured with calibrated temperature probes. All other
quantities may be recorded from the standard aircraft instruments.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-16

SECTION 8 - ENGINE COOLING

1. Requirements

The engine cooling provisions must be able to maintain the temperatures of engine
components and engine fluids within the temperature limits specified by the engine
manufacturer, or within the limits determined to be necessary by the aircraft
manufacturer.

Compliance with the cooling requirements must be shown under all likely operating
conditions.

2. Explanation

Compliance with the engine cooling requirements must be demonstrated by verifying

that there is sufficient cooling to remain within temperature limits during climb at the
take-off safety speed.

The hottest cylinder should be determined before commencing climb tests if only one
cylinder is to be monitored.

Test data can be corrected to sea level 300C conditions with an assumed lapse rate
of 20C per 1000 ft altitude. The correction formula (presented below) is necessarily
conservative, so it is in the builder’s interest to test in the highest possible ambient
temperatures to minimise the corrections required. However, temperatures should
not exceed ISA + 230C.

3. Procedures

Tests must be conducted in air free of visible moisture at the maximum take-off
weight and most forward CG.

At the lowest practical altitude establish level flight at 75% MCP until temperatures
stabilise. Record cooling data.

Apply take-off power and climb at the take-off safety speed for one minute then
reduce power to MCP and continue climbing at the same speed. The climb should
continue to an altitude where the temperatures stabilise, plus 500 ft, or to the
maximum operating altitude. The following cooling data should be recorded at one
minute intervals throughout the test:

a. Time,

b. Pressure Altitude,

c. Outside Air Temperature,

d. Hottest Cylinder Head / Coolant / Exhaust Gas Temperature (selected

depending on the limits specified by the engine manufacturer),

e. Engine Oil Inlet Temperature,

Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-17

f. Engine RPM, and

g. Indicated Airspeed.

Temperatures should be measured with calibrated temperature probes. All other

data may be recorded from the standard aircraft instruments.

Temperatures should be corrected to the Standard Hot Day Conditions using the
following formula:

Corrected Temperature = Measured Temperature + (38 – 0.002 HP – OAT)

Example: Measured Cylinder Head Temperature = 2000C

0
Measured oil Inlet Temperature = 150 C
Pressure Altitude (1013.2) = 3000 ft
Outside Air Temperature = 100C

Corrected CHT = 200 + (38 – 0.002*3000 – 10)

0
= 222 C

Corrected Oil Inlet Temperature

= 150 + (38 – 0.002*3000 – 10)
= 1720C

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-18

SECTION 9 – PROPELLER SPEED

1. Requirements

The propeller speed and pitch must be limited to values that ensure safe operation
under normal operating conditions.

During take-off and climb at the take-off safety speed the propeller must limit the
engine RPM, at full throttle, to a value not greater than the maximum allowable RPM.

During a glide at VNE, with the throttle closed or the engine stopped, the propeller
must not allow the engine RPM to exceed 110% of the maximum engine or propeller
RPM, whichever is lower.

2. Procedures

The wording of the requirements sufficiently describes the tests required to show
compliance.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-19

SECTION 10 – GROUND AND WATER HANDLING

1. Requirements

Landplanes must have no uncontrollable tendency to nose over under any

reasonably expected operating conditions, including rebound during take-off or
landing.

Seaplanes or amphibians must have no dangerous or uncontrollable porpoising

characteristics at any normal operating speed on the water.

The ability to take-off and land safely in crosswinds should be investigated. There
must be no uncontrollable ground or water-looping tendencies in 90 degree
crosswinds, up to the demonstrated limit. This limit must be shown at any speed at
which the aircraft may be operated on the ground or water.

Advice and limitations on operations in crosswinds based on the results of these

tests shall be provided in the flight manual.

Landplanes must be satisfactorily controllable in power-off landings at normal landing

speed, without using brakes or engine power to maintain a straight path.

The shock-absorbing mechanism may not damage the structure of the aircraft when
it is taxied on the roughest ground that may be reasonably expected in normal
operations.

2. Explanation

The longitudinal characteristics and control requirements are self explanatory.

The highest 90 degree crosswind component satisfactorily tested should be put in the
flight manual as performance information.

The power-off landing requirement need only be met in zero crosswind.

3. Procedures

With the most adverse weight and CG combination for ground or water handling, the
aircraft should be taxied at low and high speeds upwind, downwind and crosswind. A
series of crosswind and into-wind take-offs and landings should be made in all
configurations proposed as cleared take-off and landing configurations. Landings
should be made power-off for the into-wind cases. Since it is not always possible to
take-off or land in a direct crosswind it is acceptable to test in crosswinds of other
than 90 degrees provided the crosswind component is accurately measured.

The determination of compliance is primarily a qualitative one. However, wind

readings (velocity and direction) should be taken at various points along the runway
to determine that the minimum 90 degree component has been tested.

Landplanes should be operated from all types of runways applicable.

Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-20

SECTION 11 – AIRSPEED CALIBRATION

1. Requirement

The aircraft’s airspeed indicating system (the ‘ship’s system’) must be calibrated in
flight to determine the system error. Any other airspeed measurement system,
independent of the ship’s system, used during flight testing must also be calibrated.

2. Explanation

The airspeed indicating systems must be calibrated to enable accurate definition of

the stall and limiting airspeeds.

Airspeed calibration and stall speed determination should be accomplished at an

early stage in the flight test program because many of the other test airspeeds are
functions of the calibrated stall speed.

Airspeed measurement system calibration is discussed in detail at CASA AC 21-

40(0) – Measurement of Airspeed in Light Aircraft – Certification Requirements.

3. Procedures

A number of test techniques are available for airspeed system calibration. Those
applicable to small aircraft are described in AC 21-40(0). The simplest techniques
are the speed course method or the GPS method which basically require a
comparison of indicated airspeed with an accurately derived ground speed. More
precise results may be obtained using dedicated test equipment such as a pilot-static
boom or a trailing static source.

For the simple speed course method the following points should be noted:

a. The true airspeed of the aircraft can be determined by timing the aircraft
flying over a known distance marked on the ground. The speed course
should be flat with its length dependent on the range of speeds to be
measured (a surveyed runway of approximately 1500 metres would be
suitable for aircraft with cruise speeds in the 100 KIAS range).

b. The aircraft should be flown along the course at constant altitude and
constant indicated airspeed. A height of between 200 ft and 500 ft is
recommended.

c. To allow for wind effects, two runs at the same airspeed in opposite
directions are required. The final applicable groundspeed being the
average of the speeds on the two runs. The aircraft should be allowed
to drift with any crosswind, ie fly the aircraft on a constant heading
parallel to the speed course.

d. Calibrations must be conducted in the take-off, cruise and landing

configurations at speeds between a minimum speed comfortably above
the relevant stall speed, at least 1.2 VS0, and the maximum level flight
speed. At least five test points should be covered in each speed range.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-21

e. All testing should be conducted in smooth stable air with the aircraft
loaded to the maximum take-off weight. Testing in the calm conditions
of an early morning is recommended.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-22

SECTION 12 – STALL SPEEDS

1. Requirements

The stalling speed, VS0, at maximum take-off weight shall not exceed:

a. 61 KCAS in the case of an aeroplane with a type certificated engine, or

b. 55 KCAS in any other case 1.

The stalling speed, VS0, or minimum steady flight speed, in KCAS, should be
determined with;

a. engine(s) idling with throttle(s) closed,

b. propeller(s) in the take-off position,

c. landing gear extended,

d. wing flaps in the landing position,

e. most forward CG, and

f. weight used when VS0 is being used as a factor to determine

compliance with a particular standard.

The stalling speed, VS1, or minimum steady flight speed, in KCAS, should be
determined with;

a. engine(s) idling with throttle(s) closed,

b. propeller(s) in the take-off position,

c. aeroplane in the configuration relative to the condition in which VS1 is

being used,

d. most forward CG, and

e. weight used when VS1 is being used as a factor to determine

compliance with a particular standard.

VS0 and VS1 should be established by flight test in accordance with the following
procedures:

a. The aeroplane should trimmed, power off, at 1.5 VS or the minimum trim
speed, whichever is higher, and

b. then slowed to approximately 10 knots above the stall from whence the
airspeed should be reduced with the elevator control at a rate of one
knot per second or less until the stall occurs or the control reaches the
stop.

1
Different speeds are applicable for different categories of aircraft. Check the applicable airworthiness standard.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-23

2. Explanation

The aircraft is considered to be stalled when either of the following conditions occurs:

a. an uncontrollable downward pitching motion,

b. a downward pitching motion resulting from the activation of some

device (eg a stick pusher), or

c. the longitudinal control reaches the aft stop.

It is important to use a standard test technique to determine the stall speeds

accurately as they are used as a reference for many other performance and handling
requirements.

Aircraft airspeed indicators can be unreliable in the stall speed regions. All
performance stall speeds are based on calibrated airspeed (CAS) and for accurate
results an independent flight test airspeed measurement system can be used.
Details are provided at AC 21-40(0) – Measurement of Airspeed in Light Aircraft –
Certification Requirements.

Aircraft which have a sloping forward limit to their weight / CG diagram should be
evaluated at the most forward CG regardless of weight (the ‘forward regardless’
point) as well as the most forward CG at maximum take-off weight. The higher of the
stall speeds produced at either of these configurations will be taken as the stall
speed.

FAA AC 23-8B provides detailed information regarding stall speed measurement.

3. Procedures

The aircraft should be trimmed, power off, at 1.5 times the anticipated stall speed or
at the minimum trim speed, whichever is greater. The aircraft should then be slowed
to about 10 knots above the stall and from there the speed should be reduced at a
rate of one knot per second or less until the stall occurs or the longitudinal control
reaches its stop. If a calibrated flight test airspeed system is being used both the
stalling calibrated airspeed and the indicated airspeed, using the production airspeed
system installed in the aircraft, should be noted.

Where exact determination of stalling speed is required, a number of stalls should be

conducted during which the entry rate is varied to bracket one knot per second. The
resultant stall speeds can then be plotted against entry rates to determine the one
knot per second value.

The time history of all stall flight tests should be recorded so the actual weight of the
aircraft at the time of each test can be determined. Where an aerodynamic stall 2 has

2
Not applicable if the stall is defined by the longitudinal control reaching the stop – i.e. a minimum steady flight
speed.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-24

been demonstrated the test weight stall speeds can be corrected to the maximum
take-off weight stall speed using the following formula:

VS = VST * √WS/W T where VS = Corrected Stall Speed (CAS)

VST = Test Stall Speed (CAS)
WS = Maximum Take-Off Weight
WT = Test Weight

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-25

SECTION 13 – STALL CHARACTERISTICS

1. Requirements – Wings Level Stall

The behaviour of the aircraft during stalling from a wings level attitude must be
investigated at the forward and aft CG limits. Priority should be given to the aft CG
case and testing should be conducted at both maximum and minimum weights. The
light loading case may be critical in aeroplanes with high thrust to weight ratios.

Stall demonstrations should be conducted by reducing the speed at no more than

one knot per second from straight and level flight until either a stall results as
evidenced by a downward pitching motion, or a downward pitching and rolling motion
not immediately controllable, or until the control reaches the stop. It must be possible
to produce and correct roll and yaw by unreversed use of the controls until the stall
occurs.

It must be possible to prevent more than 150 of roll 3 by normal use of the controls
during recovery. There must be no tendency to spin.

The loss of altitude from the beginning of the stall until regaining level flight by
applying normal procedures, and the maximum pitch attitude below the horizon, must
be determined.

Stalls must be demonstrated under the following conditions:

a. Take-off, cruise and landing configurations.

b. Initial trim speed at 1.5 VS.

c. Power at idle and 75% MCP.

2. Requirements – Turning Flight Stalls 4

When stalling during a coordinated 300 banked turn it must be possible to regain
normal level flight without encountering uncontrollable rolling or spinning tendencies.
The roll will be considered to be uncontrollable if the aeroplane rolls more than a
further 300 into the turn or more than a total of 600 out of the turn.

The loss of altitude from the beginning of the stall until regaining level flight by
applying normal procedures must be determined.

Turning flight stalls should be demonstrated under the same conditions laid down for
wings level stalling.

3. Requirements – Stall Warning

There must be clear and distinctive stall warning with wing flaps and landing gear in
any normal position when approaching the stall in both straight and turning flight.
The stall warning must occur sufficiently in advance of the stall to provide the pilot
adequate forewarning.
3
200 for aircraft certificated to BCAR-S
4
Aircraft certificated to FAR 23 or CS-VLA must also meet ‘accelerated’ stall handling requirements.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-26

The stall warning may be furnished either through inherent aerodynamic qualities of
the aeroplane or by a device that will give clearly distinguishable indications under
the expected conditions of flight. However, a visual stall warning device that requires
the attention of the crew within the cockpit is not acceptable in itself.

4. Explanation

It should be possible to achieve the stall conditions described above, and the
subsequent recoveries, without an exceptional degree of pilot skill, alertness or
strength.

The requirement for unreversed use of the controls implies the aircraft will maintain
positive stability throughout the sequence. A lightening in the longitudinal control
force at the stall is acceptable however a push force, either as a transient to prevent
pitch-up or as a steady push, is not.

During recovery from the stall power should not be changed until flying control is
regained. This is interpreted to mean not before a speed of 1.2 VS is attained.

Successful investigation of the stall handling requirements will necessitate

construction and completion of a matrix of data points covering all aircraft
configurations, power-on and power-off, for both straight and turning flight.

FAA AC 23-8B provides detailed information regarding investigation of an aircraft’s

stall characteristics.

5. Procedures

All tests investigating stall characteristics should be commenced with the aircraft
trimmed at 1.5 VS or the minimum trim speed if greater.

During entry to and recovery from the stall the following quantitative data should be
recorded:

a. stall warning speed if stall warning is required,

b. stall speed,

c. pitch attitude changes,

d. roll attitude changes, and

e. altitude loss.

The following qualitative determinations should be made:

a. stick force curve remains positive, and

b. controls remain effective.

A sufficient number of stalls should be made in all configurations so as to produce

repeatable data.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-27

SECTION 14 – CONTROLLABILITY AND MANOEUVRABILITY

1. General Requirements

The aircraft must be safely controllable and manoeuvrable during:

a. take-off at maximum take-off power,

b. climb,

c. level flight,

d. descent,

e. landing, with both power on and power off, and

f. in the event of a sudden engine failure.

It must be possible to make a smooth transition from one flight condition to another
(including turns and slips) without exceptional piloting skill, strength or alertness and
without danger of exceeding the limit load factor. This must be demonstrated under
any probable operating condition and with the engine(s) running at all allowable
power settings. The effects of power changes and sudden engine failure must also
be considered. Modest departures from any recommended operating techniques
must not cause unsafe flight conditions.

Any unusual flying characteristics observed during flight testing must be evaluated.
Any significant variations in flight characteristics caused by rain should be
determined with the engine running at all allowable power settings.

If marginal conditions exist with regard to pilot effort, limits should be shown by
quantitative test and must not exceed those given in the following table:

Values in pounds force applied to Pitch Roll Yaw

the relevant control
(a) For temporary application:
Stick------------------------------------ 60 30 ---------------
Wheel (Two hands on rim)---------- 75 50 ----------------
Wheel (One hand on rim)----------- 50 25 ----------------
Rudder Pedal-------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- 150
(b) For prolonged application 10 5 20

2. General Explanation

The phrase ‘exceptional pilot skill, strength or alertness’ requires highly qualitative
judgements on the part of the test pilot. These judgements should be based on the
TP’s estimate of the skill and experience of the pilots who will normally fly the type of
aircraft under consideration. Exceptional alertness or strength requires additional
judgement factors when control forces are deemed to be marginal or when a
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-28

condition exists which requires rapid recognition and reaction to be coped with
successfully.

Temporary application, as specified in the table, may be defined as the period of time
necessary to perform the required pilot actions to relieve the forces, such as trimming
or changing the power setting.

Prolonged control forces would be for some condition that could not be trimmed out,
such as a forward CG landing. The time of application would be for the final
approach only. If the aircraft could be flown in trim to that point.

Controllability is the ability of the pilot, through proper manipulation of the controls, to
establish and maintain the attitude of the aircraft with respect to its flight path. The
design of the aircraft should make it possible to ‘control’ the attitude about the
longitudinal, lateral and directional axes. Controllability should be delineated as
‘satisfactory’ or ‘unsatisfactory’. Unsatisfactory controllability would exist if the test
pilot finds it to be so inadequate that a dangerous condition might occur. Such
characteristics would be unacceptable for showing compliance with the regulations.

Manoeuvrability is the ability of the pilot, through proper manipulation of the controls,
to alter the direction of the flight path of the aircraft. In order to accomplish this, the
aircraft must be controllable, since a change about at least one of the axes is
necessary to change a direction of flight. Manoeuvrability is so closely related to
controllability as to make them inseparable when considering any real motion of the
aircraft. It is also similarly largely qualitative in its nature and should be evaluated in
the same manner as controllability.

3. General Procedures

A qualitative determination of the controllability and manoeuvrability characteristics of

the aircraft by the test pilot will suffice unless control force limits are considered
marginal. In this case, force gauges or instrumentation should be used to measure
the forces at each affected control while flying through the required manoeuvres.

4. Requirements – Longitudinal Control

With the aircraft as nearly as possible in trim at 1.3 VS1, it must be possible at speeds
below the trim speed, down to VS1, to pitch the nose downward so that a speed equal
to 1.3 VS1 can be achieved promptly. This must be achievable with the aircraft in all
possible configurations and at all engine power settings.

It must be possible to lower the nose to maintain a safe flying speed when the engine
power is suddenly reduced from take-off power to idle while climbing at the take-off
safety speed.

It must be possible, throughout the appropriate flight envelope, to change the

configuration (landing gear, wing flaps, etc) without control of the aircraft requiring
exceptional piloting skill and without exceeding the control forces defined above.

It must be possible to raise the nose at VNE at all permitted CG positions and engine
powers.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-29

The pitch control forces during turns or when recovering from manoeuvres must be
such that at a constant speed an increase in load factor is associated with an
increase in control force.

For aircraft certificated to FAR 23 there is also a requirement to demonstrate that the
aircraft is safely controllable and able to establish a zero rate of descent at an
attitude suitable for a controlled landing without the use of the primary longitudinal
control system.

5. Explanation – Longitudinal Control

This area requires a series of manoeuvres be conducted to determine the

longitudinal controllability during push-overs from low speed, flap extension and
retraction, and during speed and power variations. The prime determinations to be
made by the test pilot are whether or not there is sufficient elevator power to perform
the required manoeuvres and that control forces are not excessive.

6. Procedures – Longitudinal Control

The wording of the requirements describes the manoeuvres needed. Special

instrumentation should not be required since most assessment is qualitative.
However, longitudinal control forces should be measured if the forces are considered
marginal or excessive.

7. Requirements – Lateral and Directional Control

Using an appropriate combination of controls it must be possible to roll the aeroplane

from a steady 30 degree banked turn through an angle of 60 degrees, so as to
reverse the direction of turn, within five seconds from initiation of roll with:

a. flaps in the take-off position,

b. landing gear retracted,

c. maximum take-off power, and

d. the aeroplane trimmed at 1.2 VS1, or as nearly as possible in trim for

straight flight.

Using an appropriate combination of controls it must be possible to roll the aeroplane

from a steady 30 degree banked turn through an angle of 60 degrees, so as to
reverse the direction of turn, within four seconds from initiation of roll with:

a. flaps extended,

b. landing gear extended,

c. engine operating at idle power and engine operating at power for level
flight, and

d. the aeroplane trimmed at 1.2 VS1.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-30

For aircraft certificated to FAR 23 there is also a requirement to demonstrate that the
aircraft is safely controllable without the use of the primary lateral control system in
any all-engine configuration and at any speed or altitude within the approved
operating envelope.

8. Explanation – Lateral and Directional Control

Meeting this requirement should ensure enough lateral and directional control to
provide an acceptable level of manoeuvrability in all phases of flight.

9. Procedures – Lateral and Directional Control

The wording of the requirements describes the manoeuvres needed. Control forces
should remain acceptable.

10. Requirements – Elevator Control Forces in Manoeuvres

The elevator control forces during turns or when manoeuvring must be such that an
increase in control force is needed to cause an increase in load factor.

11. Explanation – Elevator Control Forces in Manoeuvres

The positive stick force per ‘g’ levels in a cruise configuration must be of sufficient
magnitude to prevent the pilot from inadvertently over-stressing the aeroplane during
manoeuvring flight. FAA AC 23-8B provides detailed information.

12. Procedures – Elevator Control Forces in Manoeuvres

Compliance may be demonstrated by measuring the normal acceleration and

associated elevator stick force in a turn while maintaining the initial level flight trim
speed. The local value of control force gradient should not be less than 3 lbs/g for
stick-controlled aircraft or 4 lbs/g for those with control wheels.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-31

SECTION 15 – TRIM

1. Requirements

In level flight at 0.9 VH or VC (whichever is lower) the aeroplane must remain in

trimmed condition around the roll and yaw axes with the respective controls free. (VH
is the maximum speed in level flight with maximum continuous power set.)

The aeroplane must maintain longitudinal trim in level flight at any speed from 1.4 VS1
to 0.9 VH or VC (whichever is lower).

The aeroplane must maintain longitudinal trim during:

a. a climb with maximum continuous power at the best rate of climb

speed, VY, with landing gear and wing flaps retracted, and

b. a descent with idle power at a speed of 1.3 VS1 with landing gear
extended and wing flaps in the landing position.

For aircraft certificated to FAR 23 there is also a requirement to demonstrate that the
aircraft is safely controllable following any probable powered trim system runaway
that might be reasonably expected in service.

2. Explanation

The trim requirements ensure the aircraft will not require exceptional pilot skill,
strength or alertness to maintain a steady flight condition. The tests require the
aircraft to be trimmed for hands-off flight during the conditions specified.

3. Procedures

If installed, trim actuator travel limits should be set to the minimum allowable.

Trim tests should be conducted in smooth air. Tests requiring the use of maximum
continuous power should be conducted at as low an altitude as practical to ensure
the required power is attained.

Trim tests should be conducted at the most critical combinations of weight and CG.
Forward CG is usually critical at slow speeds and aft CG critical at high speeds.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-32

SECTION 16 – STABILITY

1. General

The aircraft must be inherently stable and must show suitable stability and control
‘feel’ under any conditions normally encountered in service.

2. Requirements - Static Longitudinal Stability

Under the conditions specified below, and with the aircraft trimmed as indicated, the
elevator control forces and the friction within the control system must have the
following characteristics:

a. A pull must be required to obtain and maintain speeds below the

specified trim speed and a push required to obtain and maintain speeds
above the specified trim speed.

b. The airspeed must return to within plus or minus 10 percent of the

original trim speed when the control force is slowly released from any
speed within the specified range.

c. The stick force must vary with speed so that any substantial speed
change results in a force clearly perceptible to the pilot.

Climb Condition. The stick force curve must have a stable slope at speeds between
the minimum speed for steady unstalled flight and the trim speed plus 20 knots or the
flap limiting speed with;

a. flaps in the climb position,

b. landing gear retraced (if applicable),

c. maximum continuous power, and

d. the aircraft trimmed at 1.4 VS1.

Cruise Condition. The stick force curve must have a stable slope at speeds between
1.3 VS1 and VNE with;

a. flaps retracted,

b. landing gear retracted (if applicable),

c. maximum continuous power, and

d. the aircraft trimmed for level flight.

Approach Condition. The stick force curve must have a stable slope at speeds
between the minimum speed for steady unstalled flight and the trim speed plus 20
knots (or the maximum flap extended speed if lower) with;

a. flaps in the landing position,

Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-33

b. landing gear extended,

c. normal approach power and power off (idle), and

d. the aircraft trimmed at the recommended approach speed.

If the aircraft does not have a longitudinal trim system the trim speeds for the climb,
cruise and approach conditions should be those used when determining stall speeds
(Section 12).

3. Explanation – Static Longitudinal Stability

The requirement for the free return speed to be within 10% of the original trim speed
effectively limits the amount of control friction that will be acceptable. For stability
testing control cable tensions should be adjusted to the maximum allowable.

The ‘stable slope’ requirement requires judgement on the part of the test pilot as to
whether or not the slope of the stick force versus airspeed curve is sufficiently steep
to allow safe operation of the aircraft.

4. Procedures – Static Longitudinal Stability

The aircraft should be trimmed in smooth air for the conditions required. After
observing trim speed, apply a slight pull force and stabilise at a lower speed. Note
the new airspeed and the required pull force. Continue this process in increments of
five to ten knots, depending on the speed range being investigated, until reaching the
specified minimum speed. The pull force should then be gradually relaxed to allow
the aircraft to return toward the trim speed and zero stick force. Depending on the
amount of friction in the control system the eventual speed at which the aircraft
stabilises will be somewhat less than the original trim speed. The new speed, called
the free return speed, must be within 10% of the original trim speed.

Starting again at the trim speed push forces should be applied gradually in the same
manner as described above for speeds in five or ten knot increments up to the
specified maximum speed. The push force should then be smoothly released and,
as before, the free return speed should be within 10% of the original trim speed.

Tests should be conducted at the critical combination of weight and CG. Aft CG is
normally critical. Both the light and heavy weight conditions should be checked.

Force measurements can be made with a hand-held force gauge, fish scales or
through electronic means, and plotted against calibrated airspeed to assess
compliance. Test data should be obtained within a reasonable band of the trim point,
no more than +/- 2000 ft.

5. Requirements – Static Directional and Lateral Stability

The static directional stability, as shown by the tendency to recover from a skid
rudder free, must be positive in the take-off, cruise and landing configurations. This
must be demonstrated at all engine powers and at speeds from 1.3 VS1 up to the
maximum allowable for the configuration.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-34

The static lateral stability, as shown by the tendency to raise the low wing from a
sideslip, must be positive in the take-off, cruise and landing configurations. This
must be demonstrated at engine powers up to 75% MCP at speeds above 1.3 VS1
and up to the maximum allowable for the configuration. The static lateral stability
may not be negative at 1.3 VS1.

In straight steady sideslips at 1.3 VS1, in the take-off, cruise and landing
configurations, at up to 50% MCP, aileron and rudder forces and displacements must
increase with sideslip angle.

At large angles of skid, up to that at which full rudder is used or the rudder force
exceeds 150 lbf, rudder forces may lighten but they must not reverse. This must be
shown at all speeds between 1.3 VS1 and VA or the limiting speed for the
configuration.

6. Explanation – Static Directional and Lateral Stability

The requirements of this section demonstrate that the aircraft has positive directional
and lateral stability and verify the absence of rudder lock.

The skid angle required to assess compliance with the basic static directional stability
requirements outlined above should be the maximum skid angle expected in service.
This judgement should be based on aircraft manoeuvrability and control forces.

The sideslip angle required to assess compliance with the basic static lateral stability
should be the angle required to maintain a steady heading with a bank angle of 10
degrees. If the aircraft cannot maintain a steady heading with 10 degrees of bank
applied then the heading may be allowed to drift.

7. Procedures – Static Directional and Lateral Stability

Testing should be conducted at the highest altitude at which the required engine
power can be achieved.

The aircraft should be loaded to the aft CG limit and maximum take-off weight.

Directional Stability. With the aircraft in the desired configuration and stabilised at
the trim speed, slowly yaw the aircraft in one direction keeping the wings level with
the lateral control. When the rudder is released the aircraft should tend to return to
straight flight. The test should be repeated yawing the aircraft in the opposite
direction. The amount of yaw should be appropriate to aircraft type.

Rudder Lock. Continue to increase the rudder deflection beyond that used above
until full deflection or the rudder force limit is reached. In this region rudder forces
may lighten but may not reverse.

Lateral Stability. With the aircraft in the desired configuration and stabilised at the
trim speed conduct a sideslip by maintaining a steady heading with the rudder while
banking at least 10 degrees with the ailerons. When the ailerons are released the
low wing should tend to return to level. The pilot should not assist the ailerons during
this demonstration but should hold full rudder (either up to the deflection limit or to
the force limit, whichever occurs first). Repeat in the opposite direction.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-35

8. Requirements – Dynamic Stability

Any short period oscillation occurring between the stalling speed and the maximum
allowable speed appropriate to the configuration must be heavily damped with the
controls;

a. fixed, and

b. free.

This requirement must be met at all allowable engine powers.

9. Explanation – Longitudinal Dynamic Stability

Without instrumentation the short period oscillation requires a qualitative evaluation.

The short period mode is the first response experienced after disturbing the
aeroplane from its trimmed condition with the elevator control. It involves a
succession of pitch acceleration, pitch rate and pitch attitude changes that occur so
rapidly the airspeed does not change significantly.

Qualitative evaluation of the short period mode should reveal it to be deadbeat or, if
perceptible at all, damped to no more than one overshoot. If damping is any less a
flight with appropriate instrumentation installed may be necessary. The motion
should be damped within two cycles after input.

If the disturbance from trim conditions is sustained long enough for the airspeed to
change significantly, and if the pitch attitude excursions are not constrained by the
pilot, the long period (or phugoid) oscillation will be excited with large but relatively
slow changes in pitch attitude, airspeed and altitude.

FAA AC 23-8B provides further information regarding dynamic stability.

10. Procedures – Longitudinal Dynamic Stability

The tests for longitudinal short period dynamic stability are accomplished by a
movement or pulse of the longitudinal control at a rate and degree to obtain a short
period pitch response from the aircraft. Initial inputs should be small and
conservatively slow until more is learned about the aircraft’s response. Control
inputs can then be made gradually large enough to properly evaluate the short period
mode.

The ‘doublet’ input excites the short period oscillation while suppressing the phugoid.
The doublet is performed, after trimming the aircraft at the required flight conditions,
by applying a smooth, but fairly rapid, movement of the longitudinal control. Apply
forward stick to decrease pitch attitude a few degrees then reverse the input to bring
the pitch attitude back to trim. As pitch attitude reaches trim return the cockpit control
to its original position and release it (controls free evaluation) or restrain it in the trim
position (controls fixed). Both methods should be utilised. At the end of the doublet
input, pitch attitude should be at the trim position (or oscillating about it) and airspeed
should be approximately trim airspeed.

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Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-36

The frequency of the doublet input depends on the response characteristics of the
aircraft. The test pilot should adjust the frequency until the maximum response is
generated.

The short period mode should be investigated at selected points covering all flight
conditions.

AC 23-8B provides information on evaluating the aircraft’s phugoid characteristics.

11. Explanation – Lateral/Directional Dynamic Stability

Characteristic lateral/directional motions normally involve three modes:

a. A highly damped convergence, called the roll mode, through which the
pilot controls roll rate and, hence, bank angle.

b. A slow acting mode, called the spiral, which may be stable but is often
neutral or even mildly divergent in roll and yaw.

c. An oscillatory mode, called the Dutch roll, that involves combined rolling
and yawing motions and may be excited by either rudder or aileron
inputs or by gust encounters.

12. Procedures – Lateral/Directional Dynamic Stability

Various techniques are available for assessing the lateral/directional dynamic

stabilities. Some are discussed in AC 23-8B.

Rudder pulsing, or doublets, can be used to excite the Dutch roll motion while
suppressing the spiral mode.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-37

SECTION 17 – SPINNING

1. Requirements

Single engine aeroplanes not cleared for aerobatics must be able to recover from a
one turn spin or a three second spin, whichever takes longer, in not more than one
additional turn after initiation of the first control action for recovery.

An alternative option is to demonstrate that the aeroplane is inherently resistant to

spinning.

In addition, an aeroplane that is to be cleared for aerobatics must also be able to

recover from any point in a spin up to and including six turns in not more than one
and a half additional turns after initiation of the first control action for recovery.

2. Explanation

A spin is a sustained autorotation at angles of attack above the stall. The rotary
motions of the spin may have oscillations in pitch, roll and yaw superimposed upon
them. The fully developed spin is attained when the trajectory has become vertical
and the spin characteristics are approximately repeatable from turn to turn.

Some aeroplanes can autorotate for several turns, repeating the body motions at
some interval, and never stabilise. Most aeroplanes will not attain a fully developed
spin in one turn. Some are reluctant to spin at all and may prefer to enter spiral
dives.

3. Procedures

Conducting a thorough assessment of an aeroplane’s spinning characteristics is a

complex exercise. It should not be undertaken lightly and is only required for initial
certification of the type design. Any advice from the aircraft designer that the aircraft
is not cleared for intentional spinning should be heeded.

FAA AC 23-8B provides detailed information on test techniques and procedures. In

addition, FAA AC 23-15A provides an abbreviated spin test matrix that can be used
to satisfy the requirements for light, simple aircraft.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-38

SECTION 18 – VIBRATION AND BUFFETING

1. Requirement

Each part of the aeroplane must be free from excessive vibration at all speeds up to
VNE. In addition, in any normal flight condition, there must be no buffeting severe
enough to interfere with the satisfactory control of the aeroplane, cause excessive
fatigue in the crew, or result in structural damage. Stall warning buffeting within
these limits is allowable.

This requirement must be met with the engine running at all allowable power settings.

2. Explanation

The tests required under this section should not be confused with flutter tests. No
attempt is made to excite flutter, but this does not guarantee against encountering it.
Therefore the tests should be carefully planned and conducted.

The indicated airspeeds for the tests should be determined from the airspeed
calibration data. Careful study of the aeroplane’s airspeed calibration is required with
respect to the characteristics of the slope at the high speed end and how the
airspeed calibration was conducted. This is necessary to determine the adequacy of
the airspeed calibration for extrapolating to VNE.

3. Procedures

In the clean configuration at the gross weight, most critical CG (probably most aft)
and the altitude selected for the start of the test, the aeroplane should be trimmed in
level flight at maximum continuous power. Speed is gained in gradual increments in
a dive until VNE is obtained. The aeroplane should be trimmed, if possible,
throughout the manoeuvre. Remain at the maximum speed only long enough to
determine the absence of excessive buffet, vibration or controllability problems.

With flaps extended and the aeroplane trimmed for level flight at a speed below VFE,
commence a shallow dive to stabilise at VFE and make the same determination as
above.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-39

SECTION 19 – FLUTTER

1. Requirements

The aeroplane must be free from flutter, aerofoil divergence and control reversal in
each configuration and for any condition of operation within the V-n diagram and at
all speeds up to the applicable limiting speed.

Flight flutter tests must be conducted.

2. Explanation

In addition to analytical methods compliance with the requirement for the airframe
and control system to remain free from flutter can be shown by systematic flight tests
designed to induce flutter at speeds up to VDF or the appropriate limiting speed.
These tests must show that there is no rapid reduction of damping as the limiting
speed is approached.

Additionally,

a. control effectiveness around all three axes should not decrease in an

unusually rapid manner, and

b. there should be no signs of approaching aerofoil divergence of wings,

tailplane and fuselage indicated from the trend of the static stabilities
and trim conditions.

3. Procedures

Conducting a thorough assessment of an aeroplane’s flutter characteristics is a

complex exercise and has the potential to be dangerous. Assistance from engineers
experienced in flutter analysis is strongly recommended.

FAA AC 23-629-1B – Means of Compliance with Title 14 CFR, Part 23, §23.629
Flutter (Appendix 2 – Flight Flutter Testing), provides detailed information on test
techniques and procedures. FAA AC 23-15A and AC 90-89A provide additional and
qualifying information applicable to light, simple aircraft.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-40

SECTION 20 – TAKE-OFF DISTANCE

1. Requirements

The take-off distance should be established from a smooth, dry, hard-surfaced

runway and/or from a short dry grass surface, as applicable to the appropriate
airworthiness standard. It is the distance required to reach a height of 50 feet from a
standing start under the following conditions;

a. the engine(s) operating within maximum take-off power limitations,

b. the aircraft reaching a height of 50 feet at an airspeed not less than the
take-off safety speed (VTOSS),

c. the landing gear extended throughout,

d. wing flaps in the take-off position,

e. maximum take-off weight and most forward CG, and

f. sea level ISA conditions.

A VTOSS should be established for each flap setting for which take-off distance
information is to be provided. The VTOSS shall be an airspeed not less than 1.2 VS1 or
VS1 plus 10 knots, whichever is the greater, at which adequate control is available in
the event of sudden complete engine failure during the climb following take-off.

Take-off charts, when included in the aircraft flight manual, shall schedule distances
established in accordance with the above provisions, factored by 1.15.

2. Explanation

Take-off distance tests should be conducted in steady wind conditions, preferably nil
wind. Gusty conditions will probably produce unacceptably inconsistent results.

Suitable measuring techniques should be employed to measure the total take-off

distance from a standing start to a height of 50 feet. The air and ground run
segments of the total take-off distance must also be recorded for data reduction
purposes.

At least five take-offs should be flown with the final distance being the mean of the
corrected (reduced) distances. The following quantities should be recorded for data
reduction purposes:

a. Weight. Testing should commence with the aircraft loaded to the

maximum take-off weight. Weights for subsequent test runs may be
derived by recording the times and fuel burns at completion. The CG
should be in its most forward position.

b. Wind. Wind velocity and direction should be measured adjacent to the

runway during the time interval for each test run.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-41

c. Temperature and Pressure. Airfield temperature and pressure altitude

should be recorded in conjunction with each test run.

d. Slope. Runway gradient can have a significant effect on the ground run
distance for low thrust to weight ratio aircraft. The gradient of the take-
off surface should be accounted for. Information on runway gradients
should be available in the airfield survey documents.

3. Procedures

To reduce the results of take-off tests to ISA sea level surfaces corrections should be
made for weight, wind, temperature, pressure altitude and runway slope.

Take-off techniques should produce consistent results and not require undue skill or
strength on the part of the pilot.

FAA AC 23-8B provides detailed information on test techniques and data reduction
procedures while FAA AC 23-15 provides additional information applicable to simple,
light aircraft.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-42

SECTION 21 – CLIMB PERFORMANCE

1. Requirement – Take-Off Climb

The gradient of climb after take-off should not be less than 8.3 percent 5 under the
following conditions:

a. sea level ISA,

b. maximum take-off weight and most forward CG,

c. airspeed not less than 1.2 VS1,

d. landing gear retracted

e. wing flaps in the take-off position,

f. engine operating at not more than maximum continuous power, and

g. in still air out of ground effect.

2. Procedures – Take-Off Climb

With the altimeter adjusted to a setting of 1013.2 mb, a series of climbs, initiated at
the lowest practical altitude, should be conducted. Stabilise airspeed and power prior
to recording data. The time at the beginning of each run should be recorded for
weight accounting purposes.

Each stabilised climb should be continued for at least three minutes or 3000 feet
while holding the airspeed essentially constant. Climbs should be conducted in
‘sawtooth’ pairs on reciprocal headings to minimise the effects of windshear.
Orientation of the climbs should be at 90 degrees to the prevailing wind direction, if
known.

Precise altimeter readings should be recorded at precise time intervals of not more
than 30 seconds. Airspeed, ambient temperature and engine parameters should
also be recorded although this can be done at longer intervals. A running plot of
altitude versus time can be maintained to assess the acceptability of test data.

It is essential to conduct climb tests in smooth air to obtain accurate results. The
presence of an atmospheric temperature inversion will also produce unacceptable
climb test results if the climbs are conducted through the inversion.

The results of reciprocal heading climbs should be averaged before data reduction.
Climb data is plotted using altitude and time as the horizontal and vertical axes. The
slope of the tangent drawn against the curve at the mean test altitude produces the
observed rate of climb. An acceptable method for correcting the test data for
temperature, pressure altitude and weight should be used to reduce the data to
standard sea level conditions. FAA AC 23-8B provides detailed information.

5
For FAR 23 aircraft. Check the appropriate airworthiness standard – different requirements are applicable for
different standards.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-43

3. Requirements – Enroute Climb

The steady gradient and rate of climb should be determined at each weight, altitude
and ambient temperature within the operational limits with:

a. not more than maximum continuous power,

b. the landing gear retracted,

c. wing flaps retracted, and

d. a climb speed not less than 1.3 VS1.

4. Procedures – Enroute Climb

Procedures for establishing enroute climb performance are the same as those
described above for the take-off climb.

5. Requirements – Baulked Landing Climb

The steady gradient of climb should not be less than four percent at sea level ISA
conditions with the aircraft configured as follows:

a. maximum landing weight,

b. climb speed not to exceed the approach speed,

c. engine(s) operating within take-off power limitations,

d. landing gear extended, and

e. wing flaps in the landing position, except that, if safe and rapid
retraction to at least the take-off position is possible without causing
excessive change in angle of attack or loss of altitude and without
requiring exceptional piloting skill, the flaps may be retracted.

If compliance with the requirement is conditional on wing flaps being retracted a

statement should be included in the aircraft flight manual detailing the procedure that
must be followed in the event of a baulked landing manoeuvre.

It must be possible to make a safe transition to the enroute climb configuration and
speed from the recommended approach speed.

6. Procedures – Baulked Landing Climb

Procedures for establishing baulked landing climb performance are the same as
those described above for the take-off climb.

The additional requirement is for the test pilot to make a qualitative judgement as to
whether the transition from approach to climb configurations can be achieved without
requiring exceptional piloting effort or skill.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-44

SECTION 22 – GLIDE PERFORMANCE

1. Requirements

For single engine aeroplanes the maximum horizontal distance travelled in still air, in
nautical miles per 1000 feet of altitude lost in a glide, and the speed necessary to
achieve this, should be determined with:

a. the engine inoperative,

b. its propeller in the minimum drag position, and

c. landing gear and flaps in the most favourable available positions.

2. Explanation

The primary purpose of this requirement is to provide the pilot with information about
the aircraft’s gliding performance. Such data can be used as a guide to the gliding
range that can be achieved. Some reasonable approximation in its derivation is
acceptable.

3. Procedures

A method of determining glide performance is sawtooth glides. These glides can be

flown using the same basic procedures used for determining climb performance and
outlined at Section 21. The best lift over drag speed is frequently higher than the
best rate of climb speed and the airspeed range to flight test may be bracketed
around a speed 10 to 15 percent higher than the best rate of climb speed.

As a minimum, the aircraft flight manual should contain a statement of nautical miles
covered per 1000 feet altitude lost at the demonstrated configuration and speed at
maximum take-off weight, standard day, no wind.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 1-45

SECTION 23 – LANDING DISTANCE

1. Requirements

The landing distance should be established for a smooth, dry, hard-surfaced runway
and/or from a short dry grass surface, as applicable to the appropriate airworthiness
standard. It is the distance required to bring the aeroplane, at maximum landing
weight under sea level ISA conditions, to rest from a height of 50 feet above the
runway surface. The aeroplane should arrive at the 50 foot point at an airspeed of
not less than the landing approach speed following a steady approach at that speed
with the wing flaps in the landing position. The landing must be made without
excessive vertical acceleration and without tendency to bounce, nose over or
ground/water loop.

The speed at 50 feet should be the recommended approach speed, but not less than
1.3 VS0 or VS0 plus 10 knots, whichever is the greater, at a power setting to be stated
in the pilot’s handbook.

Landing charts included in the aircraft flight manual should schedule distances,
established in accordance with the above provisions, factored by 1.15.

2. Explanation

The purpose of this requirement is to evaluate the landing characteristics and to

determine the landing distance. The landing distance is the horizontal distance from
a point 50 feet above the landing surface to the point where the aeroplane has come
to a complete stop, or to a speed of 3 knots for seaplanes or amphibians. The
landing characteristics element is part of the ground/water handling evaluation (see
Section 10).

3. Procedures

The landing approach should be stabilised on target speed, power, and with the
aeroplane in the landing configuration prior to arriving at the 50 foot point to assure
stabilised conditions when the aeroplane passes through the reference height. A
smooth flare should be made to the touchdown point. The landing roll should be as
straight as possible and the aeroplane brought to a complete stop (or to 3 knots for
seaplanes) for each landing test. Normal pilot reaction times should be used for
power reduction, brake application and use of other drag/deceleration devices.
These reaction times should be established by a deliberate application of appropriate
controls as would be used by a normal pilot in service. They should not represent
the minimum times associated with the reactions of a test pilot highly trained and
experienced on type.

Test conditions, measurements and data reduction are similar to those described for
measuring take-off distance at Section 20 above. See FAA AC 23-8B and AC 23-
15A for additional information.
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-1

PART 2 – FLIGHT TEST REPORT GUIDE

SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION

1. Purpose

This Flight Test Report Guide (FTRG) provides a means of recording and presenting
the general results of flight testing required for the demonstration, or assessment, of
compliance with a ‘simple’ light aeroplane certification standard.

2. Using the Guide

The FTRG is meant to be generic and adaptable. If it is to be used in association

with a type certification project the applicable airworthiness standard and its
relevant guidance material must be consulted to ensure the actual
requirements are being addressed.

The pages of this guide are not intended to form the sole basis of a flight test
schedule. Test personnel should prepare their own flight test plan and test cards
based on the information required for completion of the FTRG. Nor is the sequence
of tests necessarily that which should be followed – flight test safety and
conservatism are suggested as the best bases for project progression.

Results should be recorded by answering the questions or by providing the

quantitative data or graphical results as indicated. Requirements that are not
relevant to the aircraft being tested should be marked as ‘Not Applicable’, or simply
‘N/A’. Amplifying remarks should be provided for any item where the answer is in
doubt, or for any results that do not comply with a certification clause requirement.
Certification projects will also probably require the provision of additional or
supporting information.

The FTRG is available as a Microsoft Word template, with some embedded Excel
tables and graphical derivatives, which can be completed electronically.
Alternatively, it is presented such that it can be printed in its blank form and
completed in hard copy.

Terms and abbreviations used in this guide are defined at Annex A.

3. Certification Standards

The FTRG is meant to be a ‘generic’ guide. It does not relate specifically to any one
certification airworthiness standard. However its basis lies in the following five
standards:

a. Civil Aviation Orders – Section 101.55 (CAO 101.55),

b. Civil Aviation Orders – Section 101.28 (CAO 101.28),

c. British Civil Airworthiness Requirements – Section S (BCAR-S),

d. European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) – Certification Specification

for Very Light Aeroplanes (CS-VLA), and
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-2

e. Federal Aviation Regulations (of the USA) Part 23 (FAR 23).

In the last three of the above mentioned standards the definition and layout of
requirements is similar. Therefore, in this FTRG, where a requirement can be related
to one of these like-numbered clauses, it is annotated with an italicised cross-
reference. For example the Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) requirement is at
Paragraph 25.a of all three standards and has been annotated in the FTRG as [S25].
Where a requirement does not correlate an italicised annotation has not been added.
In all cases it is the responsibility of the user to check the requirement against the
appropriate, actual clause in the relevant airworthiness standard.

As this is a generic guide every applicable requirement from each of the above
mentioned standards may not be included. It remains the responsibility of the user to
check, against the actual airworthiness standard being applied, that all requirements
are included when the guide is being used for a specific aircraft assessment. In
particular, this guide is focussed on single engine aircraft. If a multiengine aircraft is
being considered under FAR 23 additional requirements, not included herein, will
have to be addressed.

4. Test Configurations

Take-off, cruise and landing configurations should be defined at Section 4 in

accordance with the requirements of the applicable airworthiness standard and then
used throughout.

5. Test Airspeeds

Trim speeds or speed ranges for tests are often specified in terms of stall speeds.
For a given test configuration the reference stall speed (VS) to be used shall be the
power-off stall speed at MTOW and the most forward Centre of Gravity (CG) 6 in that
configuration.

Test airspeeds should be calculated by multiplying the Calibrated Airspeed (CAS) by

the appropriate factor then converting the resulting CAS to Indicated Airspeed (IAS).

6. Flight Test Programs

Flight test programs can be progressed in any order although some tasks should be
completed before others. Airspeed system calibrations and stall speeds should be
determined at an early stage as confirmation of this data is a prerequisite for many of
the other tests.

The aircraft should be weighed accurately before commencing the test program so
precise loadings can be established that will comply with the weight and CG
requirements to be used during each test. Ideally, the aircraft should be weighed in
its take-off condition, with crew, fuel and load onboard, before each test sortie and
then again after landing.

7. Additional Data

6
Aircraft that have a forward sloping CG limit on their Wt / CG diagram should be evaluated at the most
forward CG regardless of weight (the ‘forward regardless’ point) as well as the most forward CG at MTOW.
The higher of the stall speeds produced at these configurations is taken as the aircraft stall speed.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-3

Any additional data required to show or verify certification compliance should be

included in the report at annexes. This would include:

a. Conformity Statements

b. Weight and Balance Reports

c. Instrument Calibration Reports

d. Data Reductions and Additional Reports on Specific Results (eg

Spinning).

8. Hazard Analysis / Risk Management

There are hazards involved with all flight testing. Some sequences (eg spinning,
flutter) may involve elevated risk levels. This FTRG does not include specific risk
management information. The user is strongly urged to conduct a detailed Hazard
Analysis / Risk Management exercise as part of the test planning and the ongoing
flight testing processes. Project managers and pilots are encouraged to contact the
CASA TP for further information or assistance.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-4

SECTION 2 – FLIGHT TEST LOG

T/O T/O LDG LDG

Flight Take-Off Landing Flight Weather /
Date Weight CG Weight CG Test Description Crew Remarks
No. Time Time Time Conditions
(kg) (mm) (kg) (mm)

Total

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-5

SECTION 3 – CERTIFICATION DATA

1. Manufacturer:

2. Model:

3. Registration and Serial Number:

4. Certification Basis:

5. Weight Limitations:

Maximum Weight (kg) [S25]

Minimum Weight (kg) [S25]
Empty Weight (kg) [S29]

6. CG Limitations:

Location of CG Datum
Most Forward CG at MTOW (mm from
datum) [S23]
Most Forward CG Regardless of Weight
(mm from datum) [S23]
Most Rearward CG at MTOW (mm from
datum) [S23]
Any Other Rearward CG Limit (mm from
datum) [S23]

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-6

7. Airspeed Limits:

KCAS KIAS
Never Exceed Speed (VNE) [S1505]
Maximum Structural Cruising Speed
(VNO) [S1505]
Manoeuvring Speed (VA) [S1507]
Flaps Extended Speed (VFE) [S1511]
Maximum Landing Gear Extended
Speed (VLE) [S1583]
Maximum Landing Gear Operating
Speed (VLO) [S1583]
Minimum Control Speed (VMC) [S1513]
Take-Off Safety Speed (VTOSS) [S51]
Reference Landing Approach Speed
(VREF) [S73]
Maximum Demonstrated Crosswind
Velocity [S1585] or [S1587]

8. Airframe Data:

Number of Seats
General Arrangement
Construction Material
Wing
Lift / Drag Devices
Undercarriage
Longitudinal Control
Lateral / Directional Control
Other

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-7

Photograph and /or Three View Diagram

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-8

9. Powerplant Data:

Manufacturer
Model
Type Certificate No.

Take-Off Operation
Time Limit (Minutes)
Engine RPM
Brake Horsepower
Maximum Cylinder Head Temperature
(oC)
Maximum Coolant Temperature (oC)
Maximum Oil Temperature (oC)

Continuous Operation
Engine RPM
Brake Horsepower
Maximum Cylinder Head Temperature
(oC)
Maximum Coolant Temperature (oC)
Maximum Oil Temperature (oC)

Intermediate Power Ratings

75% MCP Engine RPM
75% MCP Horsepower
50% MCP Engine RPM
50% MCP Horsepower

Engine Precautionary Range (RPM)

Any Other Limitation

10. Propeller Data:

Manufacturer
Model
Type Certificate No.
Material
Number of Blades
Diameter
Pitch Settings
Full Throttle Static RPM

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-9

11. Performance Summary:

Maximum Level Speed

Maximum Level Speed (KCAS)
Altitude (ft)
Power Setting

Cruise Speed
Cruise Speed (KCAS)
Altitude (ft)
Power Setting

Stalling Speeds
Stalling Speed, Power Off, Flaps Up, L/G
Up (VS1) (KCAS) [S49]
Stalling Speed, Power Off, T/O Flap, L/G
Up (VS1) (KCAS) [S49]
Stalling Speed, Power Off, LDG Flap,
L/G Down (VS0) (KCAS) [S49]

Take-Off Climb
Rate of Climb (MTOW, SL/ISA) (ft/min)
[S65]
Climb Gradient (MTOW, SL/ISA) (%)
[S65]
Take-Off Safety Speed (KCAS) [S51]

Take-Off and Landing

Take-Off Distance to 50ft (MTOW,
SL/ISA) (m) [S51] or [S53]
Airspeed at 50ft (KCAS) [S51]
Landing Distance from 50ft (MTOW,
SL/ISA) (m) [S75]
Airspeed at 50ft (KCAS) [S73]

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-10

12. General Remarks – Certification Data:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-11

SECTION 4 – TEST CONFIGURATIONS

1. Standard Test Configurations

Serial Configuration Flap Landing Power Remarks

Gear

(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f)

1 Takeoff (T/O) 1st Down Normal Power defined with
Stage Takeoff respect to RPM /
Manifold Pressure /
HP
2 Climb (CL) Up Up Normal
Climb
3 Cruise (CR) Up Up Power for Power as applicable
Level to specific test point.
Flight
(PLF) or
As
Required
(A/R)
4 Approach 1st Down A/R Power as required to
(APP) Stage maintain rate of
descent equivalent
to required approach
gradient.
5 Landing (LDG) 2nd Down A/R Power as applicable
Stage to specific test point.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-12

2. Test Configurations

Serial Configuration Flap Landing Power Remarks

Gear

(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f)

1 Takeoff (T/O)
2 Climb (CL)
3 Cruise (CR)
4 Approach
(APP)
5 Landing (LDG)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-13

SECTION 5 – EQUIPMENT AND FLIGHT OPERATIONS

1. Control Systems

Yes /
No
Do all controls operate easily, smoothly and positively enough to allow
proper performance of their of their function? [S671]
Are the controls arranged and identified to provide for convenience in
operation and to prevent the possibility of confusion and subsequent
inadvertent operation? [S671]
Does each control system have stops that positively limit the range of
motion of the pilot’s controls? [S675]
Are proper precautions taken to prevent inadvertent, improper or abrupt
trim tab operation? [S677]
Is there a means near the trim control to indicate to the pilot the direction of
trim control movement relative to aeroplane motion? [S677]
In addition, is there a means to indicate to the pilot the position of the trim
device with respect to the range of the adjustment and are the means
visible to the pilot, located and designed to prevent confusion? [S677]
If a control system lock is installed, is there a means to give unmistakeable
warning to the pilot when the lock is engaged and to prevent the lock from
engaging in flight? [S679]
Are provisions made to prevent passengers, cargo or loose objects from
jamming, chafing or interfering with the control system? [S685]
Are there means in the cockpit to prevent the entry of foreign objects into
places where they could jam the control system? [S685]
Is the design of the wing flap system such that the wing flaps will not move
from the set position unless the control is adjusted or is moved by
automatic operation of a flap load limiting device? [S697]
Does the rate of flap movement and the resulting pilot forces impair the
controllability of the aircraft? [S697]
Is there a position indicator or other means to indicate the flaps are
extended, retracted and in any other position required for performance
compliance? [S699]
Are the wing flaps mechanically interconnected? [S701]
If not, does the aeroplane have safe flight characteristics with the flap
retracted on one side and extended on the other? [S701]

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-14

2. Pilot Compartment and Cabin

Yes /
No
Does the pilot compartment and its equipment allow each pilot to perform
his/her duties without unreasonable concentration or fatigue? [S771]
Is the pilot compartment free from glare and reflections that would interfere
with the pilot’s vision and designed so that the pilot’s view is sufficiently
extensive, clear and undistorted allowing safe operation of the aircraft?
[S773]
Is each pilot protected from the elements so that moderate rain conditions
do not unduly impair his/her view of the flight path in normal flight and while
landing? [S773]
Is there a means for preventing internal fogging of the pilot compartment
windows or, if not, can any internal fogging be easily cleared by the pilot?
[S773]
Is the cabin area surrounding each seat, including structure, interior walls,
instrument panel, control wheels, pedals and seats, within striking distance
of the occupant’s head or torso (with the safety belt and shoulder harness
fastened) free of potentially injurious objects, sharp edges, protuberances
and hard surfaces? [S785]

3. Cockpit Controls

Yes /
No
Is each cockpit control located and (except where its function is obvious)
identified to provide convenient operation and to prevent confusion and
inadvertent operation? [S777]
Are the controls located and arranged so that the pilot, when seated, has
full and unrestricted movement of each control without interference from
either his/her clothing or the cockpit structure? [S777]
If the aircraft has dual controls, can each of the following secondary
controls be operated from each of the pilot’s seats; engine controls, wing
flaps, landing gear, trim, canopy opening and jettisoning controls? [S777]
Are the cockpit controls designed such that they operate in the standard
sense as defined at [S779] of the appropriate airworthiness standard?
Are the cockpit controls fitted with standard knobs as defined at [S781] of
the appropriate airworthiness standard?
Are all emergency controls coloured red? [S777] or [S780]
Do the powerplant and other secondary controls maintain any necessary
position without constant attention by the flight crew or without a tendency
to creep due to control loads or vibration? [S1141]
Do the fuel shutoff valves have guards against inadvertent operation and
allow appropriate flight crew members to reopen each valve rapidly after it
has been closed? [S995]
Are the fuel valves provided with positive stops or detents in the ‘on’ and
‘off’ positions? [S995]
Are the ignition switches arranged and designed to prevent inadvertent
operation? [S1145]

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-15

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-16

4. Emergency Exit

Yes /
No
Is it possible to make a rapid and unimpeded exit from the cockpit in an
emergency? [S783]
Are exits located clear of all propeller discs? [S783]
If the cockpit is enclosed is the opening system designed so that it can be
operated easily by each occupant when strapped in? [S807]
Can the opening system be operated from outside the aircraft? [S807]

5. Instruments and Equipment

Yes /
No
Does each item of installed equipment function properly? [S1301]
Is the aircraft fitted with at least an airspeed indicator, an altimeter and a
magnetic direction indicator? [S1303]
Are the powerplant instruments required by [S1305] fitted?
Are flight, navigation and powerplant instruments clearly arranged and
plainly visible to each pilot? [S1321]
Are Warning and Caution lights coloured red and amber respectively?
[S1322]
Are Advisory lights coloured green, or any other colour sufficiently different
to red or amber? [S1322]
Is there a means to indicate the adequacy of the power being supplied to
the instruments? [S1331]
Is there a means to give immediate warning to the pilot of the failure of any
generator? [S1351]
Is there a means to indicate to the pilot that the electrical power supplies
are adequate for safe operation? [S1351]
If the ability to reset a circuit breaker or replace a fuse is essential to safety
in flight are those circuit breakers or fuses so located and identified such
that they can be easily reset or replaced in flight? [S1357]
Is there an electrics master switch provided and is it easily discernible and
accessible to the pilot in flight? [S1361]
Is any safety equipment installed such that it is easily accessible and such
that its location is obvious? [S1411]

6. Operating Limitations and Information

Yes /
No
Have the operating limitations required by [S1501] to [S1527] of the
appropriate airworthiness standard been established?
Are the markings and placards required by [S1541] to [S1567] of the
appropriate airworthiness standard fitted or provided?
Is an Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM), in accordance with [S1581] to [S1589]
of the appropriate airworthiness standard, provided?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-17

7. General Remarks – Equipment and Flight Operations

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-18

SECTION 6 – VENTILATION

1. Carbon Monoxide Test

The level of Carbon Monoxide (CO) concentration is to be measured using an

approved detector under the following conditions [S831]:

Weight and CG (as convenient)

Measurement Vents and / or Windows

Test Condition
Location Closed Open Heater On
On Ground Pilot’s Face
Taxying Instrument Panel
Climb at MCP Pilot’s Face
and VTOSS Instrument Panel
Cruise at 75% Pilot’s Face
MCP Instrument Panel
Descent at Idle Pilot’s Face
Power and VREF Instrument Panel

Yes /
No
Do any of the CO readings exceed one part in 20 000?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-19

SECTION 7 – POWERPLANT

1. Propeller Speed

The Propeller speed and pitch must be limited to values that ensure safe operation
under normal operating conditions [S33] and [S905].

Weight and CG (as convenient)

Condition Engine RPM Propeller RPM

Maximum Allowable
During Climb at Best Rate
of Climb Speed (VY) with
Full Throttle
During Glide at VNE with
Engine at Idle or Stopped

Yes /
No
Are engine or propeller limits exceeded during climb?
Are engine or propeller limits exceeded by more than 10% during glide at
VNE?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-20

2. Fuel System

The unusable fuel supply for each tank must be established. The unusable fuel
supply is the quantity remaining in the tank after the first evidence of engine
malfunction under the most adverse fuel feed conditions [S959]:

Weight and CG (as convenient)

Condition Tank #1 Tank #2

Level Flight at Maximum Recommended Cruise Power

Straight & Level Coordinated Flight
Turbulent Air, Level Flight (Simulated by +/- half ball
width sideslips at approximate natural frequency of the
aircraft)
Level Flight – Skidding Turn in Direction Most Critical to
Fuel Feed

Climb at Maximum Climb Power and Best Angle-of-Climb Speed (VX)

Straight Coordinated Flight
Turbulent Air (Simulated by +/- half ball width sideslips at
approximate natural frequency of the aircraft)
Skidding Turn in Direction Most Critical to Fuel Feed

One-Engine-Inoperative Climb: Maximum Climb Power at One-Engine-

Inoperative Best Rate-of-Climb Speed (VYSE)
Straight Climb at Bank Angle and Sideslip Used to
Determine Single-Engine Performance

Descent and Approach

Straight Coordinated Power Off Descent at VFE with Gear
and Flaps Down (or as per Emergency Descent
Procedure if defined in the AFM)
Turbulent Air, Power Off Glide at 1.3 VS0 (Simulated by
+/- half ball width sideslips at approximate natural
frequency of the aircraft)
Transition from Power Off Glide (Verify that there is no
interruption to fuel flow when making a simultaneous
application of MCP and transition to best rate of climb
speed (VY))
Sideslip Approach in Direction Most Critical to Fuel Feed
Transition to MCP / VY from Power Off Gliding Sideslip
Approach in Direction Most Critical to Fuel Feed

Compliance may be shown by ground tests that accurately simulate the above flight
attitudes and conditions.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-21

Taxi turns and turning take-off procedures may require further fuel gauge markings.
Refer to FAA AC 23-16 – Powerplant Guide for Certification of Part 23 Airplanes – for
further information.

3. Engine Cooling

The powerplant cooling provisions must be able to maintain the temperatures of

powerplant components and engine fluids within the temperature limits established
by the engine manufacturer [S1041] to [S1047]. Tests are to be conducted in air free
of visible moisture.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Engine Power Ratings

Take-Off Power
Maximum Continuous - MCP
75% MCP

Airspeeds KCAS KIAS

Take-Off Safety Speed (VTOSS)
Best Rate of Climb Speed (VY)

Pre-Engine Start Data

Outside Air temperature (OAT) (oC)
Pressure Altitude at Airfield Elevation (ft)
Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) (oC)
Coolant Temperature (oC)
Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) (oC)
Oil Temperature (oC)

CHTs are to be recorded on the hottest cylinder head. This may be determined
using a mixing box and a thermocouple on each cylinder or by a single thermocouple
attached to each cylinder in turn.

Describe the System Used:

Cooling climb test data should be recorded at Annex B and test results summarised
in the following table:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-22

Cylinder Head No ___ or

Oil Inlet
Coolant
Maximum Observed
Temperature (oC)
True Observed
Temperature 7 (oC)
Pressure Altitude (ft)
Observed OAT (oC)
True OAT 8 (oC)
Corrected Temperature 9
(oC)
Maximum Permissible
Temperature (oC)

Yes /
No
Are temperatures within limits?

4. Carburettor Air Heat Rise

The reciprocating engine air induction system must have means to prevent and
eliminate icing [S1093]. Tests are to be conducted in level flight at cruise mixture
settings in air free of visible moisture.

Weight and CG (as convenient)

Carburettor Air Heat Rise Data

Pressure Altitude (ft)
OAT (oC)
Power (75% MCP)
CAT Heat Off (oC)
CAT Heat On (oC)
Heat Rise (oC)

5. General Remarks – Powerplant

7
Temperatures corrected for instrument error. Attach calibration curve.
8
Temperatures corrected for instrument error. Attach calibration curve.
9
Temperatures corrected to SL 38oC.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-23

SECTION 8 – GROUND AND WATER HANDLING

1. Landplane

The ground handling characteristics of the aeroplane should be assessed in

accordance with [S231] to [S235]:

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)
CG - most aft (mm)

Yes /
No
Is there any unusual ground looping tendency?
Is this demonstrated during power-off landings at normal landing speed
during which brakes or engine power are not used to maintain a straight
path?
Is directional control during taxiing and take-off satisfactory?
Is there any uncontrollable ground looping tendency during taxiing, take-off
or landing in 900 crosswinds up to a wind speed of 8 kt?
Has the aeroplane been tested in 900 crosswinds greater than 8 kt?
If ‘yes’ what was the maximum crosswind speed?
Are the ground handling characteristics satisfactory in this crosswind?
Is this the highest 900 degree crosswind recommended for this aeroplane?
Is there any uncontrollable tendency to nose over in any operating
conditions reasonably expected for the type, including rebound during
landing or take-off?
Do the wheel brakes operate smoothly and exhibit no undue tendency to
induce a tendency for the aircraft to nose over?
Does the shock absorbing mechanism appear to be adequate to prevent
damage to any part of the aeroplane when operated on the roughest
ground which may be reasonably expected in normal operation?
Specify type of surface used for this test.
Is there sufficient shock absorbing, under the above conditions, such that
‘bottoming’ or other possible damage to the aircraft structure will not occur?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-24

2. Seaplane

The ground and / or water handling characteristics of the amphibian or seaplane

should be assessed in accordance with [S231] to [S239]:

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)
CG - most aft (mm)

Yes /
No
Does the spray produced during taxiing, take-off or landing at any time
dangerously obscure the vision of the pilots?
Does the spray produced during taxiing, take-off or landing at any time
produce damage to the propeller or any other part of the aircraft?
Is there any dangerous or uncontrollable porpoising at any speed or
condition under which the aircraft is normally operated?
Can the aircraft be held on a straight course during the take-off run with
take-off power set?
Can the aircraft be safely controlled in the event of failure of any engine at
any point in the take-off run and during taxiing?
Can the aircraft be manoeuvred and sailed safely under all expected
conditions?
If water rudders are provided do they perform satisfactorily?
Is the aircraft satisfactorily controllable during taxiing, take-off or landing in
900 crosswinds up to a wind speed of 8 kt?
Has the aircraft been tested in 900 crosswinds greater than 8 kt?
If ‘yes’ what was the maximum crosswind speed?
Are the water handling characteristics satisfactory in this crosswind?
Is this the highest 900 degree crosswind recommended for this aircraft?
What is the maximum wind velocity in which satisfactory 3600 turns can be
executed at or below step speed?
Do the wheel brakes operate smoothly and exhibit no undue tendency to
induce a tendency for the aircraft to nose over?
What is the wave height (trough to crest) of the roughest water upon which
the aircraft has been operated?

3. General Remarks – Ground and Water Handling

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-25

SECTION 9 – AIRSPEED CALIBRATION

1. Calibration of the Airspeed Measurement Systems 10

The standard production airspeed indicating system installed in the aircraft must be
calibrated to indicate true airspeed at sea level in a standard atmosphere [S1323].

The production airspeed system is normally not sufficiently predictable or repeatable

at high angles of attack to accurately measure the performance stall speed of an
aeroplane in accordance with [S49] of the appropriate standard. These tests require
the use of properly calibrated instruments and usually require a separate test
airspeed system, such as a trailing bomb, a trailing cone, and/or an acceptable nose
or wing boom. Any such test airspeed system should also be properly, and
independently, calibrated.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – as convenient (mm)

2. Calibration System(s) or Method(s)

Describe the System or Method Used:

Describe the nature and location of pitot source(s):

Describe the nature and location of static source(s):

3. Test Results

Test data and reduced test results should be recorded at Annex C.

Yes /
No
Does the maximum system error exceed the limits specified at [S1323] of
the applicable airworthiness standard?
Is the airspeed indicating system suitable for speeds between VS0 and at
least VNE?

10
CASA Advisory Circular AC 21-40(0) – Measurement of Airspeed in Light Aircraft – Certification
Requirements – provides information and advice.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-26

SECTION 10 – STALL SPEEDS

1. Stalling Speed

[S49] of the applicable airworthiness standard defines stalling speed. Maximum

allowable values for VS0 will also be stipulated. If the aircraft fails to develop the
classic stall characteristics in any configuration the stall speed will be the minimum
steady flight speed with full back stick.

Stalling speeds should be measured using a flight test airspeed measuring system,
one that is suited to low speed and/or dynamic conditions. FAA AC 23-8B and
CASA AC 21-40(0) provide additional information and outline flight test techniques
that can be used for accurate stall speed testing.

2. Test Data

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward 11 (mm)

Corrected
Test Trim Stall
Configuration 12 Test Airspeed at Stall
Weight (kg) Speed (KIAS) (KCAS)
Speed at
(KIAS) MTOW
(KCAS)

Landing

Cruise

Take-Off

3. Summary of Stall Speeds

Stall Speed
Configuration
KIAS KCAS
Landing
Cruise
Take-Off

11
See Section 1, Paragraph 5. Stall speeds should be measured at the ‘forward regardless’ CG position as well
as the most forward CG at MTOW. The higher of the stall speeds produced at these configurations is taken as
the aircraft stall speed.
12
Some airworthiness standards stipulate that the stall speeds should be checked with the engine at both the idle
and inoperative conditions. The higher of the stall speeds produced at these conditions is taken as the aircraft
stall speed.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 27

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-28

SECTION 11 – STALL CHARACTERISTICS

1. Forward CG, Wings Level Stalls, Power Off

Wings level stalling characteristics are defined at [S201] of the applicable

airworthiness standard. Stall warning requirements are at [S207].

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Idle (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-29

2. Forward CG, Wings Level Stalls, Power On

Wings level stalling characteristics are defined at [S201] of the applicable

airworthiness standard. Stall warning requirements are at [S207].

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-30

3. Forward CG, 300 AOB Turning Stalls, Power Off

Turning flight and accelerated stalling characteristics are defined at [S203] of the
applicable airworthiness standard.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Idle (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:
Are characteristics different depending on direction of turn?
Describe any difference:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-31

4. Forward CG, 300 AOB Turning Stalls, Power On

Turning flight and accelerated stalling characteristics are defined at [S203] of the
applicable airworthiness standard.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:
Are characteristics different depending on direction of turn?
Describe any difference:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-32

5. Aft CG, Wings Level Stalls, Power Off

Wings level stalling characteristics are defined at [S201] of the applicable

airworthiness standard. Stall warning requirements are at [S207].

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most rearward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Idle (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-33

6. Aft CG, Wings Level Stalls, Power On

Wings level stalling characteristics are defined at [S201] of the applicable

airworthiness standard. Stall warning requirements are at [S207].

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most rearward (mm)

Power
Power Setting (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-34

7. Aft CG, 300 AOB Turning Stalls, Power Off

Turning flight and accelerated stalling characteristics are defined at [S203] of the
applicable airworthiness standard.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most rearward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Idle (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:
Are characteristics different depending on direction of turn?
Describe any difference:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-35

8. Aft CG, 300 AOB Turning Stalls, Power On

Turning flight and accelerated stalling characteristics are defined at [S203] of the
applicable airworthiness standard.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most rearward (mm)

Power
Power Setting (MAP/RPM)

Configuration
Take-Off Cruise Landing
Trim Speed 1.4 VS
or Minimum Trim
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Warning
Speed (KIAS)
Stall Speed (KIAS)
Maximum Roll
(deg)
Maximum Yaw
(deg)
Maximum Pitch
(deg)
Altitude Lost (ft)
Maximum KIAS
During Recovery

Yes /
No
Is it possible to produce correct roll and yaw with unreversed use of aileron
and rudder up to the stall?
Does any natural stall warning occur?
Describe the nature of the stall warning:
Are characteristics different depending on direction of turn?
Describe any difference:

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-36

9. General Remarks – Stall Characteristics

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-37

SECTION 12 – CONTROLLABILITY AND MANOEUVRABILITY

1. Controllability and Manoeuvrability

[S143] through to [S157] of the applicable airworthiness standard define minimum

controllability and manoeuvrability criteria.

Trim controls should be left at their initial settings throughout the tests.

Yes /
No
Is the aircraft satisfactorily controllable and manoeuvrable about all axes
during take-off, climb, level flight, descent and landing with power on and
power off?
Is it possible to make smooth transitions from one flight condition to
another without exceptional skill or strength being required by the pilot and
with danger of exceeding limit load factors?
Are the control force limits for both temporary and prolonged application,
as specified at [S143] of the applicable airworthiness standard, exceed in
any operation?

2. Longitudinal Control at Most Forward CG

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – most forward (mm)

Are control forces greater than Control

Trim
those stipulated at [S143] Yes / Force
Configuration Speed
required to accomplish the No (lbf or
(KIAS)
following: kg)
1.3 VS1 Extend landing flap as rapidly as
Idle Power
possible while maintaining trim
Cruise
speed.
Idle Power 1.3 VS0 Retract flaps as rapidly as possible
Landing while maintaining trim speed.
MCP 1.3 VS0 Retract flaps as rapidly as possible
Landing while maintaining trim speed.
Idle Power 1.3 VS1 Apply T/O power while maintaining
Cruise trim speed.
Idle Power 1.3 VS0 Apply T/O power while maintaining
Landing trim speed.

Yes /
No
Is it possible to raise the nose at VDF with the engine at idle power and at
MCP?
For any required trim setting, is it possible to take-off, climb, descend and
land the aeroplane in required configurations with no adverse effects and
with acceptable control forces?
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-38

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-39

3. Longitudinal Control at Aft CG

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – most rearward (mm)

Are control forces greater than Control

Trim
those stipulated at [S143] Yes / Force
Configuration Speed
required to accomplish the No (lbf or
(KIAS)
following: kg)
1.3 VS1 Extend landing flap as rapidly as
Idle Power
possible while maintaining trim
Cruise
speed.
Idle Power 1.3 VS0 Retract flaps as rapidly as possible
Landing while maintaining trim speed.
MCP 1.3 VS0 Retract flaps as rapidly as possible
Landing while maintaining trim speed.
Idle Power 1.3 VS1 Apply T/O power while maintaining
Cruise trim speed.
Idle Power 1.3 VS0 Apply T/O power while maintaining
Landing trim speed.

Test to determine that the nose can be pitched down for prompt acceleration to
trim speed.
Configuration Take-Off Cruise Landing Cruise
Power MCP MCP Idle Idle
Trim Speed KIAS
1.3VS1 KCAS
Lowest KIAS
Airspeed from
which Pitch is KCAS
Satisfactory.

Yes /
No
Is it possible to raise the nose at VDF with the engine at idle power and at
MCP?
Is it possible to lower the nose to maintain a safe flying speed when power
is suddenly reduced from the maximum take-off setting to idle when
climbing at VTOSS?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-40

4. Elevator Control Forces in Manoeuvres

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – most rearward (mm)

Weight – Minimum Operation (kg)

CG – most rearward (mm)

Yes /
No
Is an increase in control force need to cause an increase in load factor
during turns or when recovering from manoeuvres?
Is the sick force per ‘g’ such that the stick force to achieve the positive limit
manoeuvring load factor is less than that stipulated in [S155] of the
applicable airworthiness standard?

5. Lateral and Directional Control

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – most rearward (mm)

It must be possible to reverse the direction of a 300 banked turn to a 300 banked turn
in the opposite direction within the time limits specified at [S157] of the applicable
airworthiness standard under the following conditions:

Configuration Speed Result (Yes/No)

Take-off 1.3VS1
Cruise 1.3VS1
Landing 1.3VS0

6. Acrobatic Manoeuvres

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – most forward (mm)

Weight – MTOW (kg)

CG – most rearward (mm)

Yes /
No
If the aircraft is to be cleared for acrobatics is it able to safely perform those
acrobatic manoeuvres for which certification is requested?
Has a safe entry speed for each such manoeuvre been defined?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-41

7. General Remarks – Controllability and Manoeuvrability

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-42

SECTION 13 – TRIM

1. Trim ability

[S161] of the applicable airworthiness standard defines trim requirements.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – most forward (mm)

Weight – MTOW (kg)

CG – most rearward (mm)

2. Lateral and Directional Trim

Yes /
No
Does the aeroplane remain in a trimmed condition around the roll and yaw
axes, with the respective controls free, at 90% of the maximum level flight
speed with MCP set (VH) or at the design cruising speed (VC) (whichever is
lower)?

3. Longitudinal Trim

Yes /
No
Is the aeroplane able to maintain longitudinal trim in level flight at any
speed from 1.4VS1 to 0.9VH or at VC (whichever is lower)?
Is the aeroplane able to maintain longitudinal trim in a climb, with MCP set,
at the best rate of climb speed with landing gear and wing flaps retracted?
Is the aeroplane able to maintain longitudinal trim in a descent, with idle
power set, at 1.3VS1 with landing gear extended and wing flaps in the
landing position?

4. General Remarks – Trim

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-43

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-44

SECTION 14 – STABILITY

1. Stability

[S171] to [S181] of the applicable airworthiness standard define stability

requirements.

2. Static Longitudinal Stability

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Weight – MTOW (kg)

CG – most rearward (mm)

Satisfactory longitudinal stability data should be presented at Annex D and must be

demonstrated in the following configurations:

Satisfactory
Configuration Trim Speed Test Range
Result (Yes/No)
Climb: MCP
VTRIM +/- 15% or
Climb Flap 1.4VS1
VFE
Gear Up
Cruise: MCP
Flap Up Level Flight 1.3VS1 - VNE
Gear Up
Approach:
Power 30
G/S VREF 1.1VS1 – VFE
Land Flap
Gear Down
Approach:
Power Idle
VREF 1.1VS1 – VFE
Land Flap
Gear Down

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-45

3. Static Lateral and Directional Stability

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – most rearward (mm)

a. Take-Off Configuration - Directional

Test Points
Power Speed
1.2VS1
Idle
VMAX
1.2VS1
MCP
VMAX

Yes /
No
Is there a positive tendency to recover from a skid, rudder free?
Do rudder forces increase steadily with sideslip?

b. Take-Off Configuration - Lateral

Test Points
Power Speed
1.2VS1
Idle
VMAX
1.2VS1
75% MCP
VMAX

Yes /
No
Is there a tendency to raise the low wing in a sideslip?
Do rudder and aileron forces increase steadily with sideslip?

c. Take-Off Configuration – Rudder Lock

Test Points
Speed Power
Idle
1.2VS1
50% MCP

Yes /
No
Do rudder forces reverse with full deflection?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-46

d. Cruise Configuration - Directional

Test Points
Power Speed
1.2VS1
Idle
VMAX
1.2VS1
MCP
VMAX

Yes /
No
Is there a positive tendency to recover from a skid, rudder free?
Do rudder forces increase steadily with sideslip?

e. Cruise Configuration - Lateral

Test Points
Power Speed
1.2VS1
Idle
VMAX
1.2VS1
75% MCP
VMAX

Yes /
No
Is there a tendency to raise the low wing in a sideslip?
Do rudder and aileron forces increase steadily with sideslip?

f. Cruise Configuration – Rudder Lock

Test Points
Speed Power
Idle
1.2VS1
50% MCP

Yes /
No
Do rudder forces reverse with full deflection?

g. Landing Configuration - Directional

Test Points
Power Speed
1.2VS1
Idle
VMAX
1.2VS1
MCP
VMAX

Yes /
No

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-47

Is there a positive tendency to recover from a skid, rudder free?

Do rudder forces increase steadily with sideslip?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-48

h. Landing Configuration - Lateral

Test Points
Power Speed
1.2VS1
Idle
VMAX
1.2VS1
75% MCP
VMAX

Yes /
No
Is there a tendency to raise the low wing in a sideslip?
Do rudder and aileron forces increase steadily with sideslip?

i. Landing Configuration – Rudder Lock

Test Points
Speed Power
Idle
1.2VS1
50% MCP

Yes /
No
Do rudder forces reverse with full deflection?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-49

4. Dynamic Stability

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Weight – MTOW (kg)

CG – most rearward (mm)

Dynamic stability should be checked under all of the configurations and conditions
that static stability is checked. However, for the longitudinal case, it is not intended
that every point along the stick force curve be checked, just sufficient to determine
acceptable characteristics at operational speeds.

Yes /
No
Are longitudinal short period oscillations heavily damped when the primary
controls are left ‘free’?
Are longitudinal short period oscillations heavily damped when the primary
controls are held ‘fixed’?
Is there any long-period flight path oscillation (phugoid) which is so
unstable as to increase the pilot’s workload or to otherwise endanger the
aircraft?
Are combined lateral-directional oscillations (Dutch-rolls) damped to within
1/10 amplitude within seven cycles when the primary controls are left
‘free’?
Are combined lateral-directional oscillations (Dutch-rolls) damped to within
1/10 amplitude within seven cycles when the primary controls are held
‘fixed’?

5. General Remarks – Stability

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-50

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-51

SECTION 15 – SPINNING

1. Spinning

[S221] of the applicable airworthiness standard defines spinning requirements.

Conducting a thorough assessment of an aeroplane’s spinning characteristics is a

complex exercise. It should not be undertaken lightly and is only required for initial
certification of the type design. Any advice from the aircraft designer that the aircraft
is not cleared for intentional spinning should be heeded and spin testing beyond that
required for initial certification should not be attempted.

FAA AC 23-15A provides an abbreviated spin test matrix that can be used to satisfy
the [S221] requirements for light, simple aircraft and has been referred to as the
basis for this FTRG. For more complex aircraft, or if intentional spinning is to be
requested, the more detailed matrices of FAA AC 23-8B should be used. In either
case the procedural information in AC 23-8B should be followed.

FAA ACs 23-8B and 23-15A also provide guidance for assessing an aircraft as ‘spin
resistant’ or for the additional intentional spinning requirements for acrobatic aircraft.

2. Abbreviated Spin Test Matrix

Weight / CG 13
Weight – most critical (kg)
CG – most critical (mm)

Normal Spins
Left (Lt) Turn Right (Rt) Turn
Configuration Level Entry
Entry Entry
CR – Power Off 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt
T/O 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt
LDG – Power Off 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt

Abnormal Spins
Power Off
Power On Power Off
Configuration Elevator First
Ailerons Against Ailerons Against
Recovery
CR 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt
T/O 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt
LDG 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt 1 Lt, 1 Rt

Yes /
No
Does the aeroplane meet the spinning, or spin resistance, requirements of
[S221] of the applicable airworthiness standard?

13
Development and build-up testing should determine the combination of weight and CG most critical for spin
characteristics. Lateral loading, and the possibility of imbalance, may need to be considered.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-52

3. General Remarks – Spinning

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-53

SECTION 16 – VIBRATION AND BUFFETING

1. Vibration and Buffeting

[S251] of the applicable airworthiness standard defines vibration and buffeting

requirements.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Weight – MTOW (kg)

CG – most rearward (mm)

Maximum
Configuration Power KCAS KIAS
Speed
CR MCP VDF
LDG MCP VFE

Yes /
No
Was any excessive vibration or buffeting experienced up to the limiting
speed in either configuration?

2. General Remarks – Vibration and Buffeting

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-54

SECTION 17 – FLUTTER

1. Flutter Flight Test

[S629] of the applicable airworthiness standard defines flutter requirements.

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Weight – MTOW (kg)

CG – most rearward (mm)

Maximum
Configuration Power KCAS KIAS
Speed
CL MCP VFE
CR MCP VDF
APP A/R VFE
LDG A/R VFE

Yes /
No
Was the aeroplane free from flutter, aerofoil divergence and control
reversal in each configuration and for any condition of operation within the
V-n diagram and at all speeds up to the applicable limiting speed(s)? 14

2. General Remarks – Flutter Flight Test

14
This section is intended as a report on the actual flutter flight tests. Cross reference to an applicable Flutter
Report should be made for detailed information.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-55

SECTION 18 – TAKE-OFF DISTANCE

1. Take-Off Performance

[S51] to [S53] of the applicable airworthiness standard define take-off performance

requirements for simple light aeroplanes.

2. Test Conditions

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Maximum Take-Off
(MAP/RPM)

Flap
Take-Off Position (deg)

Speed
VTOSS KCAS
KIAS

Surface Conditions
Paved
Land
Grass
Height of Waves,
Water
Trough to Crest (m)

3. Summary of Take-Off Performance

Test data and reduced test results should be recorded at Annex E.

Distance required to take-off and climb to a height of 50 feet above the

take-off surface at MTOW and under ISA sea-level conditions? (m)

4. General Remarks – Take-Off

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-56

SECTION 19 – CLIMB PERFORMANCE

1. Climb Performance

[S63], [S65], [S69] and [S77] of the applicable airworthiness standard define climb
performance requirements for simple, single-engine, light aeroplanes.

2. Take-Off Climb - Test Conditions

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
15
Power Setting – Maximum Take-Off
(MAP/RPM)

Flap
Take-Off Position (deg)

Speed
VTOSS KCAS
KIAS

3. Summary of Take-Off Climb Performance

The Sawtooth Climb test method (cf FAA AC 23-8B) will provide reliable results. Test
data should be recorded at Annex F.

What was the observed rate of climb in the T/O configuration under the test
conditions? (ft/min)
- at what pressure altitude? (ft)
- at what temperature? (0C)
What is the corrected rate of climb in the T/O configuration at MTOW under
ISA / SL conditions? (ft/min)
What is the gradient of climb in the T/O configuration at MTOW under ISA /
SL conditions? (%)

Yes /
No
Are these T/O configuration rates or gradients of climb in excess of any
minimums stipulated in the appropriate airworthiness standard?

15
Or Maximum Continuous Power as per the applicable airworthiness standard.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-57

4. Enroute Climb - Test Conditions

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Maximum Take-Off
(MAP/RPM)

Speed
1.3VS1 KCAS
KIAS

5. Summary of Enroute Climb Performance

Test data should be recorded at Annex F.

What was the observed rate of climb in the CL configuration under the test
conditions? (ft/min)
- at what pressure altitude? (ft)
- at what temperature? (0C)
What is the corrected rate of climb in the CL configuration at MTOW under
ISA / SL conditions? (ft/min)
What is the gradient of climb in the CL configuration at MTOW under ISA /
SL conditions? (%)

Yes /
No
Are these CL configuration rates or gradients of climb in excess of any
minimums stipulated in the appropriate airworthiness standard?

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-58

6. Balked Landing Climb - Test Conditions

Weight / CG
Weight – MLW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Maximum Take-Off
(MAP/RPM)

Flap
Landing Position 16 (deg)

Speed
VREF KCAS
KIAS

7. Summary of Balked Landing Climb Performance

Test data should be recorded at Annex F.

What was the observed rate of climb in the balked LDG configuration under
the test conditions? (ft/min)
- at what pressure altitude? (ft)
- at what temperature? (0C)
What is the corrected rate of climb in the balked LDG configuration at
MTOW under ISA / SL conditions? (ft/min)
What is the gradient of climb in the balked LDG configuration at MTOW
under ISA / SL conditions? (%)

Yes /
No
Are these balked LDG configuration rates or gradients of climb in excess of
the minimums stipulated in the appropriate airworthiness standard?

8. General Remarks – Climb Performance

16
The airworthiness standards will generally stipulate that the flaps must be in the landing position except that if
they may be safely retracted in two seconds or less, without loss of altitude and without sudden changes of angle
of attack or the requirement for exceptional piloting skill, they may be retracted.

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-59

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-60

SECTION 20 – GLIDE PERFORMANCE

1. Glide Performance

The definition of glide performance may be a requirement for a simple, single-engine,

light aeroplane. If so it will be listed at [S71] of the applicable airworthiness standard.

2. Glide Performance - Test Conditions

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – Minimum 17 (MAP/RPM)

Flap
Most Favourable Position (deg)

Speed
Recommended KCAS
Glide Speed 18 KIAS

3. Summary of Glide Performance

A variation of the Sawtooth Climb test method (ie a sawtooth glide) will provide
reliable results. Test data should be recorded at Annex G.

What is the best glide ratio? (nm/1000ft)

What glide speed is recommended in order to achieve the best glide ratio?
(KIAS)

4. General Remarks – Glide Performance

17
The engine should be inoperative with the propeller set to its minimum drag position.
18
The recommended glide speed will normally be that for minimum glide angle – ie maximum possible lift-to-
drag ratio. The best lift over drag speed is frequently higher than the best rate of climb speed.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide 2-61

SECTION 21 – LANDING DISTANCE

1. Landing Performance

[S73] and [S75] of the applicable airworthiness standard define landing performance
requirements for simple light aeroplanes.

2. Test Conditions

Weight / CG
Weight – MLW (kg)
CG - most forward (mm)

Power
Power Setting – As Required for Steady
Approach (MAP/RPM)

Flap and Landing Gear

Landing Position(s) (deg)

Speed
VREF KCAS
KIAS

Surface Conditions
Paved
Land
Grass
Height of Waves,
Water
Trough to Crest (m)

3. Summary of Landing Performance

Test data and reduced test results should be recorded at Annex H.

Distance required to land from a height of 50 feet above the landing

surface at MTOW and under ISA sea-level conditions? (m)

4. General Remarks – Landing

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide A-1

ANNEX A TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Symbol/Ter Definition
m

A Altitude, eg. A050 is 5000 ft altitude on QNH altimeter setting.

A/R As Required
ABAA Amateur Built Aircraft Acceptance
AC Advisory Circular
AFM Aircraft Flight Manual
AO Above Obstacles
APP Approach Configuration
ASI Airspeed Indicator
AWB Airworthiness Bulletin
BCAR-S British Civil Airworthiness Requirements – Section S
bhp Brake horse power
CG Centre of Gravity
CAO Civil Aviation Orders
CAR Civil Aviation Regulation
CAS Calibrated Airspeed
CASA Civil Aviation Safety Authority
CASR Civil Aviation Safety Regulation
CAT Carburettor Air Temperature
CHT Cylinder head Temperature
CL Climb Configuration
CO Carbon Monoxide
CofA Certificate of Airworthiness
CR Cruise Configuration
CS Certification Standard
DA Design Advice
DA Density Altitude (ft)
deg Degrees
EASA European Aviation Safety Agency
EGT Exhaust Gas Temperature
FAA Federal Aviation Administration (of the USA)
FAR Federal Aviation Regulations (of the USA)
FMS Flight Manual Supplement
ft Feet
FTE Flight Test Engineer
FTRG Flight Test Report Guide
FTI Flight Type Inspection
FTIP Flight Type Inspection Plan
FTIR Flight Type Inspection Report
FTT Flight Test Technique
FWD Forward
GPS Global Positioning System
G/S Glideslope
GND Ground level
hp Horse power
IAS Indicated Airspeed
ISA International Standard Atmosphere
KCAS Knots Calibrated Air Speed
kg Kilogram

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide A-2

KIAS Knots Indicated Air Speed

kt Knot
KTAS Knots True Air Speed
lb Pound
LDG Landing Configuration
LHS Left Hand Side
Lt Left
m Metre
MAC Mean Aerodynamic Chord
MAP Manifold Air Pressure
mb Millibar
MCP Maximum Continuous Power
min Minute
MLW Maximum Landing Weight
mm Millimetre
MTOW Maximum Takeoff Weight
N/A Not Applicable
nm Nautical Mile
OAT Outside Air Temperature
PLF Power for Level Flight
PM Project Manager
PPM Parts per Million
RHS Right Hand Side
RPM Revolutions Per Minute
Rt Right
SAAA Sports Aircraft Association of Australia
SAT Static Air Temperature
SC Stratocumulus
sec Second
SL Sea Level
STC Supplemental Type Certificate
Δt Time Interval
TAT Total Air Temperature
TC Type Certificate
TCDS Type Certificate Data Sheet
TIA Type Inspection Authorisation
T/O Take Off or Take Off Configuration
TP Test Pilot
VA Manoeuvring Speed
VC Design Cruise Speed
VDF Demonstrated Flight Diving Speed
VFE Maximum Flap Extended Speed
VH Maximum Speed in Level Flight with Maximum Continuous Power
VLE Maximum Landing Gear Extended Speed
VLO Maximum Landing Gear Operating Speed
VMAX Maximum Allowable Speed for the Condition being Tested
VMC Minimum Control Speed with Critical Engine Inoperative
VNE Never Exceed Speed
VNO Maximum Structural Cruising Speed
VREF Reference Landing Approach Speed
VS Stall Speed
VS0 Stalling Speed or Minimum Steady Flight Speed in the Landing Configuration
VS1 Stalling Speed or Minimum Steady Flight Speed in a Specific Configuration
VTOSS Take-Off Safety Speed
VX Best Angle of Climb Speed
VY Best Rate of Climb Speed
VYSE Best Rate of Climb Speed – Single Engine
V-n Airspeed – Load Factor (Diagram) (Flight Envelope Diagram)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide A-3

VLA Very Light Aircraft

VMC Visual Meteorological Conditions
VSI Vertical Speed Indicator

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide B-1

ANNEX B TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

COOLING CLIMB TEST DATA

Observed Temperatures
0
Pressure ( C)
Time Engine Airspeed
Altitude CHT
(Minutes) RPM (KIAS)
(ft) OAT Coolant Oil Inlet
EGT

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide C-1

ANNEX C TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

AIRSPEED SYSTEM CALIBRATION TEST DATA

1. Speed Course Method 19

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – as convenient (mm)

Course
Distance (m)

Conduct at least five pairs of runs, up and down the speed course, for each of the
take-off, cruise and landing configurations. Speed range from approximately 1.2 VS
to the maximum level speed or the limiting VFE / VLE. Readings should be taken at 5
kt intervals in the low speed range and 10 kt intervals in the high speed range. For
each run record:
• indicated airspeed,
• time taken to complete course,
• pressure altitude (1013.2 mb), and
• OAT (derive Static Air Temperature (SAT) by correcting Total Air Temperature
(TAT) from the aircraft’s indicator).

Data should be recorded and reduced at Appendix 1.

2. Remote Pitot/Static Source Method 20

Weight / CG
Weight – MTOW (kg)
CG – as convenient (mm)

Conduct at least three runs from just above the stall to VNE or the limiting VFE / VLE for
each of the take-off, cruise and landing configurations. Readings should be taken at
5 kt intervals in the low speed range and 10 kt intervals in the high speed range.
Hold the aircraft at the test airspeed for sufficient time to allow the instrument
readings to stabilise before recording data. It is desirable to maintain level flight for
all speeds where practical.

Data should be recorded and reduced at Appendix 2.

19
Similar logic, albeit with a different test procedure, is used in the GPS Airspeed Calibration Method – see
CASA AC 21-40 or FAA AC 23-8B for details.
20
A number of calibration methods employing remote pitot and/or static sources are available – see CASA AC
21-40 or FAA AC 23-8B for details.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide C-2

APPENDIX 1 TO
ANNEX C TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

SPEED COURSE DATA

The following table and graphical grid provide for inclusion of Speed Course Method data reduction completed in accordance with
Appendix 9 of FAA AC 23-8B. (Copy, paste and repeat for all aircraft configurations)

Observed Data Reduced Data

Average Average Average
Ground
Distance Time Altitude SAT Ground Factor Indicated Calibrated
Configuration KIAS Speed
(√ρ/ρ0)
0
(m) (sec) (ft) ( C) Speed Airspeed Airspeed
(kt)
(kt) (KIAS) (KCAS)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide C-3

Airspeed System Calibration Curve

(KCAS)

180

170

160

150

140

130
Calibrated Airspeed (KCAS)

120

110 Average Calibrated Airspeed

(KCAS)
100 Linear (Average Calibrated
Airspeed
90
(KCAS))
80

70

60

50

40

30

20
20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180
Indicated Airspeed (KIAS)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide C-4

APPENDIX 2 TO
ANNEX C TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

REMOTE PITOT / STATIC DATA

Test data should be collected and reduced using the methods outlined at Appendix 9 of FAA AC 23-8B. Data points should be the
mean of three runs for each speed and configuration.

Corrected 21 Aircraft
Aircraft System Calibrating System Calibrated Airspeed 22
Configuration System
(KIAS) (KIAS) (KCAS)
(KIAS)

Take-Off

Cruise

Landing

21
Aircraft system reading corrected for instrument error.
22
Calibrating system reading corrected for instrument error.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-1

ANNEX D TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: CLIMB
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Forward): (mm)
Longitudinal Static Stability - Climb - Forward CG
Power: (MAP/RPM) 2
Trim Speed: (KIAS)
1.5

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force 1

(kg) (+ve
for pull; -ve 0.5
for push)
0
kg

Minimum Speed 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120

Intermediate Speed -0.5
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed -1
Intermediate Speed
Trim Speed -1.5
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed -2
Intermediate Speed KIAS
Intermediate Speed Stick Force (kg) (+ve for pull; -ve for push)
Maximum Speed
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-2

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: CLIMB
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Aft): (mm)
Power: (MAP/RPM)
Trim Speed: (KIAS)

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force

(kg) (+ve
for pull; -ve
for push)

Minimum Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Trim Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Maximum Speed
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-3

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: CRUISE
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Forward): (mm)
Power: (MAP/RPM)
Trim Speed:
Longitudinal Static Stability - Cruise - Forward CG
(KIAS)
2

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force 1.5

(kg) (+ve
for pull; -ve 1
for push)
0.5
Minimum Speed
0

kg
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180
Intermediate Speed -0.5
Intermediate Speed
-1
Trim Speed
Intermediate Speed
-1.5
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
-2
Intermediate Speed
KIAS
Maximum Speed
Stick Force (kg) (+ve for pull; -ve for push)
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-4

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: CRUISE
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Aft): (mm)
Power: (MAP/RPM)
Trim Speed: (KIAS)

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force

(kg) (+ve
for pull; -ve
for push)

Minimum Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Trim Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Maximum Speed
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-5

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: APPROACH
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Forward): (mm)
Power: (MAP/RPM)
Trim Speed: (KIAS)

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force

(kg) (+ve for
pull; -ve for
push)

Minimum Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Trim Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Maximum Speed
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-6

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: APPROACH
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Aft): (mm)
Power: (MAP/RPM)
Trim Speed: (KIAS)

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force

(kg) (+ve for
pull; -ve for
push)

Minimum Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Trim Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Maximum Speed
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-7

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: LAND
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Forward): (mm)
Power: (MAP/RPM) Longitudinal Static Stability - Land - Forward CG
Trim Speed: (KIAS) 2

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force 1.5

(kg) (+ve
for pull; -ve 1
for push)
0.5

Minimum Speed 0

kg
Intermediate Speed 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120
Intermediate Speed -0.5
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed -1
Trim Speed
Intermediate Speed -1.5
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed -2
Intermediate Speed KIAS
Maximum Speed Stick Force (kg) (+ve for pull; -ve for push)
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide D-8

LONGITUDINAL STATIC STABILITY

Configuration: LAND
Weight: (kg)
CG (Most Aft): (mm)
Power: (MAP/RPM)
Trim Speed: (KIAS)

Test Speed KIAS Stick Force

(kg) (+ve
for pull; -ve
for push)

Minimum Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Trim Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Intermediate Speed
Maximum Speed
Free Return Speed (After
Acceleration)
Free Return Speed (After
Deceleration)

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide E-1

ANNEX E TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

TAKE-OFF PERFORMANCE DATA

Data for Ground Take-Off and Climb to 50ft

Data 23 1st Run 2nd Run 3rd Run 4th Run 5th Run
Power Setting (MAP/RPM)
Outside Air Temperature (0C)
Pressure Altitude (1013.2 mb) (ft)
Density Altitude (ft)
Wind Velocity at ____ ft Above
Ground Level (kts)
Wind Direction with respect to
Runway (deg)
Wind Component Along Runway
(kts)
Wind Component Across Runway
(kts)
KIAS
Rotation Speed (VR)
KCAS
KIAS
Airspeed at Lift-Off (VLOF)
KCAS
Take-Off Weight (kg)
Measured Ground Run (m)
Corrected Ground Run (Standard
Conditions) (m)
Measured Airborne Distance to 50ft
(m)
KIAS
Airspeed at 50ft
KCAS
Corrected Airborne Distance to 50ft
at VTOSS (Standard Conditions) (m)
Total Corrected Take-Off Distance
(m)
Average Corrected Take-Off
Distance (m)

23
At least five take-off runs, to 50ft, should be carried out. Speed at 50ft may not be less than 1.3VS1 or VS1 plus
10 kts, whichever is the greater. The test take-off runs must be made in such a manner that their reproduction shall
not require an exceptional degree of piloting skill or exceptionally favourable conditions.
May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide F-1

ANNEX F TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

CLIMB PERFORMANCE DATA

Data for Sawtooth Climb Test Method

Sufficient climbs should be conducted to obtain reliable data. Use additional copies of
the following tables as required. Repeat for Take-Off Climbs, Enroute Climbs and
Balked Landing Climbs as applicable.

2nd
Data 1st Run 3rd Run 4th Run 5th Run 6th Run
Run
Configuration
KIAS
Test Airspeed
KCAS
Test Altitude (1013.2 mb)
(ft)
Outside Air Temperature at
Test Altitude (0C)
Aircraft Weight at Test
Altitude (kg)
Power Setting at Test
Altitude (MAP/RPM)

Δt Δt Δt Δt Δt Δt
Altitude (ft)
(sec) (sec) (sec) (sec) (sec) (sec)
-1000 0 0 0 0 0 0
-900
-800
-700
-600
-500
-400
-300
-200
-100
Test Altitude
+100
+200
+300
+400
+500
+600
+700
+800
+900
+1000

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide G-1

ANNEX G TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

GLIDE PERFORMANCE DATA

Data for Sawtooth Glide Test Method

Sufficient glides should be conducted to obtain reliable data. The best lift over drag
speed is frequently higher than the best rate of climb speed; therefore, the airspeed
range to flight test may be bracketed around a speed 10 to 15 percent higher than the
best rate of climb speed.

2nd
Data 1st Run 3rd Run 4th Run 5th Run 6th Run
Run
Configuration
KIAS
Test Airspeed
KCAS
Test Altitude (1013.2 mb)
(ft)
Outside Air Temperature at
Test Altitude (0C)
Aircraft Weight at Test
Altitude (kg)
Power Setting at Test
Altitude (MAP/RPM)

Δt Δt Δt Δt Δt Δt
Altitude (ft)
(sec) (sec) (sec) (sec) (sec) (sec)
+1000 0 0 0 0 0 0
+900
+800
+700
+600
+500
+400
+300
+200
+100
Test Altitude
-100
-200
-300
-400
-500
-600
-700
-800
-900
-1000

May 2005
Light Aircraft Flight Test Report Guide H-1

ANNEX H TO
LIGHT AIRCRAFT FTRG
DATED MAY 05

LANDING PERFORMANCE DATA

Data for Landing from 50ft

Data 24 1st Run 2nd Run 3rd Run 4th Run 5th Run
Power Setting (MAP/RPM)
Outside Air Temperature (0C)
Pressure Altitude (1013.2 mb) (ft)
Density Altitude (ft)
Wind Velocity at ____ ft Above
Ground Level (kts)
Wind Direction with respect to
Runway (deg)
Wind Component Along Runway
(kts)
Wind Component Across Runway
(kts)
Landing Weight (kg)
KIAS
Approach Speed (VREF)
KCAS
Measured Airborne Distance from
50ft to Touchdown (m)
Corrected Airborne Distance from
50ft to Touchdown (Standard
Conditions) (m)
KIAS
Airspeed at Touchdown
KCAS
Measured Ground Run from
Touchdown to Stop (or 3kts) (m)
Corrected Ground Run from
Touchdown to Stop (or 3kts)
(Standard Conditions) (m)
Total Corrected Landing Distance
(m)
Average Corrected Landing
Distance (m)

24
The test landings must be made in such a manner that their reproduction shall not require an exceptional degree
of piloting skill or exceptionally favourable conditions. The landings must be accomplished without excessive
vertical acceleration, tendency to bounce, nose over, ground-loop, porpoise or water-loop.
May 2005