In-Flight Simulators

The Flight Dynamics Laboratory (FDL) has sponsored and managed the development and use of several generations of in-flight simulators during the last thirty years. These vehicles were designed and fabricated, and are operated by the Flight Research Department of Calspan Corporation, Buffalo, New York. These unique aircraft have been used to develop control laws and control systems, to evaluate new aircraft before first flight, to provide specialized training for test pilots, to perform essential flight research in flying and handling qualities, and to develop and validate the military specifications for handling qualitites of piloted airplanes. As aircraft and control systems have become more complex and capable, systems integration issues have required more and more effort and resources.