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.
