An Approach to Military Airworthiness Certification of a Previously Developed Helicopter from a Flying Qualities Perspective

A type certificate has been issued to the ICH-47F Chinook helicopter by the Italian Ministry of Defense (MoD) following a comprehensive military airworthiness certification effort conducted jointly by AgustaWestland and Boeing. This paper presents the path to certification from the Flying Qualities perspective. The path presented begins with an overview of the Chinook and existing airworthiness standards. The challenge of applying modern requirements to an existing helicopter design is discussed along with the approach taken by the team to develop platform relevant requirements based on existing requirements. Following the definition of Flying Qualities certification requirements, the paper addresses verification methods, activities, and documentation. In conclusion, the paper reflects on the approach that led to the production of a complete certification compliance package within schedule and budget constraints.