DC-10 Test Program Effectiveness

The DC-10 aircraft test program has been planned to provide increased overall efficiency and effectiveness. A series of comprehensive engineering development simulations and aircraft ground tests will precede the flight test program, which will employ a sophisticated data acquisition and processing system with the capability to provide real-time data while the tests are in progress. A flight controls development test stand will be used to evaluate the prototype flight control and avionic equipment and provide the capability for pilot assessment of the Flight Guidance and Control (FG&C) System by means of an integrated simulator complex. A laser beam tracking system will be used to provide the space positioning data required in Flight Guidance and Control, noise measurement, and takeoff and landing performance tests. Training on the DC-10, which began one year prior to the scheduled first flight, will be broadened to include test runs and flight simulation to establish plans and to train all test-related personnel.