An engineer who works with planes, jets, and helicopters is known as a flight test engineer. They may test new parts on existing models, such as radar equipment, or they may test new aircraft or even prototypes. She is in charge of developing the aircraft’s flight test phase in general. Preparing test plans with other engineers, configuring the aircraft buildup, and collaborating with others to install recorders and sensors are all examples of this. She may also be in charge of analyzing and carrying out the step-by-step plan or flight card for each test flight, as well as writing a report based on her findings.
One of the primary responsibilities of the flight test engineer is to ensure that the test flight is conducted safely with the assistance of the test pilot. She’s also responsible for analyzing the data gathered during a test flight. She may also collaborate with other engineers on the preparation and writing of a flight test report. The report usually contains the specifics and outcomes of the flight test phase. Equipment may be removed, computers may be rewired, and other changes may be made as a result of the report.
Occasionally, the flight test engineer will fly inside the aircraft being tested. She will typically monitor the test phase from a control room if she is not in the aircraft being tested. The test aircraft’s equipment frequently sends data to the engineer in real time. In addition, while testing the aircraft, the engineer would have contact with the pilot.
A flight test engineer is occasionally assigned to specific missions. In this case, she must be able to plan the details of the mission and create a mission timeline to ensure that it meets all of the flight test objectives. She should also be able to create and analyze test plans and flight test cards in general. Data analysis of flight simulations and test flights is frequently a necessary part of the job.
Typically, an aircraft manufacturer hires a flight test engineer directly. She could also work for a government agency or a research organization. If she works for a manufacturer, she might test a new plane to make sure it meets all of the certification and safety requirements set forth national law.
A bachelor’s degree in engineering is usually required of a flight test engineer. Many engineers also hold a master’s degree in engineering. A specific degree, such as a degree in aerospace engineering, is frequently more advantageous. Additionally, many colleges and universities offer flight test courses as electives through their engineering departments. Many employers offer formal flight test training once you’ve been hired.