zodiacjeff(at)msn.com
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 Posted: Mon Jul 09, 2007 1:25 pm Post subject: Phase I time |
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<?xml:namespace prefix="v" /><?xml:namespace prefix="o" /><![endif]--> If you're interested here's the scoop from EAA's Joe Norris on the recent discussions of time limits on Phase 1 flight testing.
Hi Jeff,
The Phase 1 flight testing requirements for the various certification categories are called out in FAA Order 8130.2. There are different requirements depending on what category the aircraft is being certificated in. For amateur-built category, the order requires either a 40 hour flight test period, or a 25 hour test period if a type-certificated engine/prop combination is installed. For experimental light-sport aircraft (ELSA) category, the order only says that the flight test period must be a minimum of 5 hours. However, the FAA inspector or DAR has the latitude to impose longer test periods if they see fit.
So, in the case you suggest, a Zenith 701 would get a 40 hour flight-test period if it's being certificated as amateur-built. But the same aircraft may (or may not) get a flight test period as short as 5 hours if it's being certificated as ELSA. The FAA office I work for when doing aircraft certifications would require at least a 25 hour flight test period for an ELSA Zenith 701 that has never flown before, but other offices may vary in what they will require.
Now, remember that this is a MINIMUM required time. You're correct that in order to properly test an aircraft it takes a good bit more than 5 hours. A proper flight-test program takes probably 35 or 40 hours, if not more (depending on the aircraft). A person shouldn't sign the aircraft out of flight test until the testing is complete, regardless of how many hours the FAA required as a minimum flight test time.
Joe Norris
EAA Aviation Services
EAA Aviation Center, Oshkosh, WI
888-322-4636, extension 6806
jnorris(at)eaa.org
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