An Airplane is a System

An airplane is a system, it is made of components

That are interconnected and have a behavior. Thus as a system, an airplane:

• It is composed of dissimilar elements/parts/components
• Parts are interrelated:
• What happens to one part may affect the others.
• What happens to one part may affect the outcome (output) of the whole system.
• While performing processes transform inputs into outputs, it has a behavior, derived from how it is formed (its structure) and the interrelation of its components.

The most important consequence is that to have control of what an airplane does, it is necessary to control its components and the interrelations between them.

When we put together this system, we have to assure the parts are right and the connections and processes between the parts are working right, to obtain the desired results.

How is this accomplished? By formally:

• Describe the structure (specify the components).
• Define the inputs and outputs (specify performance).
• Describe the processes that transform inputs into outputs (define procedures).

The word formally means with a form, following some order, that have a material permanent  form, so it is not just an idea or immaterial thing.

That's why it is necessary to have the drawings and construction manuals, have a specifications sheet, and finally the Pilot Operating Handbook or POH.

These are considered to be so important, that are required by regulations as an input to grant the airworthiness or permission to fly.

As a system -it is the widespread strategy- the safest way to operate (fly) an airplane is following checklists. It is adhering to formal procedures.

The Fundamental of Testing

The foundation of a sound testing is a sound Testing Program

The testing goal is not only to know the performance envelope of an airplane; it is also an assessment of its reliability. Reliability is inherent to a system. An aircraft is a system, integrated by its hardware, software, supporting infrastructure, operators and procedures.

The Testing Program begins during the construction of the plane, with a clear definition of its intent of design and specifications and a good documentation of the systems that form the aircraft.

The Testing Program does not end with Phase 1, its life spans thru the life of the airplane.

A sound Testing Program does not only encompasses good inspection and testing methods, it includes good recording practices, it also includes sound evaluation, assessment of records and results, action curse definition and follow-up

The most important resource to secure for the Testing Program is the Team. Testing can’t be done alone, it is fundamental to have a group of persons working for one objective, a Team. When the Team is working properly, its results are greater than the mere sum of its parts.

Once you get the Team, setting the right teamwork is next. The key is to have a plan, assign tasks and responsibilities to each member, and rehearse until you are sure that everyone and the team as a unit are capable of ‘Plan the flight, and fly the plan’.

Having the Team and  the plans does not suffice, it is necessary to identify and procure the needed resources, in terms of time, equipment, tools, instruments, instructions and reference info. As said it has to be obtained at the time of rehearsal.

The results consists of knowledge of airplane capacities, airworthiness, and finally as a consequence, the reliability and confidence in the plane.