Introduction to Flight Testing and Applied Aerodynamics

An introduction into the art and science of measuring and predicting airplane performance, Introduction to Flight Testing and Applied Aerodynamics will benefit students, homebuilders, pilots, and engineers in learning how to collect and analyze data relevant to the takeoff, climb, cruise, handling qualities, descent, and landing of an aircraft. This textbook presents a basic and concise analysis of airplane performance, stability, and control. Basic algebra, trigonometry, and some calculus are used.


Topics Discussed
Engine and propeller performance
Estimation of drag

Airplane dynamics

Wing spanwise lift distributions

Flight experimentation

Airspeed calibration

Takeoff performance

Climb performance

Dynamic and static stability

Special Features
Examples containing student-obtained data about specific airplanes and engines

Simple experiments that determine an airplane’s performance and handling qualities

End-of-chapter problems (with answers supplied in an appendix)