Handling Qualities Criteria for Training Effectiveness Assessment of the BS115 Aircraft
Bas van Lierop (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
Joris Melkert – Mentor
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Abstract
With the introduction of the BS115, an ultra-light two-seater general aviation aircraft, a new opportunity for military pilot training is presented. To increase the training potential of this aircraft, the training effectiveness has been investigated. Previous research on training effectiveness assessment has failed to address the influence of handling qualities, even though it is identified as one of the most important criteria. To assess the influence of handling qualities on training effectiveness, a set of evaluation criteria has been established. These evaluation criteria have been assessed using a series of CS-VLA certification flight tests, supplemented with a DATCOM analysis. The evaluation showed that the BS115 performed adequate in terms of stability and roll performance. However, control forces were found to be unsatisfactory for both the elevator and ailerons. To maximize the training effectiveness of the BS115, the flight control system should be adapted to increase these control forces.