A flight simulation study of the handling characteristics of a slender wing supersonic transport aircraft at landing approach speeds

Abstract

A ground based flight simulator has been used for piloting assessments of the handling characteristics of a slender wing supersonic transport aircraft during the landing approach. The simulation included two methods of representing the outside visual world, and, for some of the tests, cockpit motion in pitch and roll was also used. Amongst the topics studied were the effects of turbulence, and the improvements in handling which could be brought about by autostabilization. Data is presented in the form of pilots' assessments on an opinion rating scale, measurements of the accuracy of performing landing approaches, and time histories of control usage and aircraft response. A brief comparison of these handling assessments with the predictions of existing handling qualities criteria has also been made.