Developing, Qualifying and Operating Business Jet Thrust Reversers

The types of thrust reversers currently employed for business jet aircraft are briefly reviewed and their main features noted. The different types of reversers applicable to various powerplants - straight turbojets, low bypass ratio turbofans and high bypass ratio turbofans are pointed out, with comments on weight and cost. The advantages of reversers for business operations are listed and quantified and potential new uses are discussed. Alternate approaches to the thrust reverser control system are presented, with emphasis on the required procedures at the pilot station. Current federal aircraft regulation requirements for ground and in-flight qualification of reversers are discussed and experience gained from developmental and qualification tests on specific installations are described.