ANALYZING THE FLARED LANDING TASK WITH PITCH-RATE FLIGHT CONTROL-SYSTEMS

A closed-loop handling qualities methodology is applied to an analysis of the flared landing task with pitch-rate flight control systems. A model of pilot behavior throughout approach and flare is developed that postulates the manner in which the pilot may move from pitch attitude to flight-path angle control. Twenty-five configurations flight tested on the NC-131H total in-night simulator aircraft are analyzed using a structural Pilot model and a handling qualities methodology previously reported in the literature. Closed-loop simulation of the simplified landing task is undertaken using the structural model. The pilot ratings from flight test extended the data base supporting the utility of a model-based handling qualities metric. A handling qualities sensitivity function is introduced that may have potential as a design tool.