Progress in aviation through aircraft engineering and modification

Commercial and General Aviation has benefited over the years through the efforts of Research and Development (R&D). Some of these efforts are pursued by the aerospace industry, partnerships with academic institutions, and most frequently by aviation-related government agencies. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has participated and contributed significantly to R&D efforts at the William J. Hughes Technical Center in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. Certification of new avionic systems, flight control devices and computer communication functions have increased aircraft dependability, reliability and improved aircraft safety. The longevity of aircraft used in Commercial and General Aviation has increased because of the combined efforts by industry, academia, and the government. Aircraft Engineering and Modification methodologies will be discussed and analyzed. Each of the modifications required changes to an FAA aircraft, classified in the standard category, for Flight Test and Performance purposes. The equipment was mounted and hard fastened on a rack at the Technical Center. Each aircraft modified for the project underwent structural, mechanical and electrical study and analysis to meet the Flight Test standards prescribed by the FAA. A sincere attempt will be made to demonstrate some origins of aviation progress, highlight the benefits from the versatile open systems work effort, and present an economic feasibility of this supported organizational effort with a view towards the future.