The Application of FAA Handling Qualities Rating Method for Certification of Transport Category Airplane System Failures

摘要

The evaluation of qualitative handling qualities with pilot-in-the-loop is an inherently complex endeavor. This is particularly true for civilian certification of transport airplanes as flight control systems have become more complex and highly integrated. Nearly 30 years have elapsed since Collet McEIroy presented his "FAA Handling Qualities Assessment - Methodology in Transition" [Ref. 1] and introduced the Handling Qualities Rating Method (HQRM). The regulatory framework for HQRM extends beyond the systems requirements of Sec. 25.671/.672 and Sec. 25.1309 by providing structured guidance relevant to flight control failures, flight requirements, and handling qualities. During the application of HQRM on many commercial certification programs since its introduction, many lessons have been learned and valuable experience has been gained which will be presented as relevant examples. This paper will also explore extending the application of HQRM's certification guidance to include modifications to the definition of flight envelopes that can be used for envelope-limiting flight control systems.