Airborne Radar Approach, FAA/NASA Gulf of Mexico Helicopter Flight Test Program

摘要

A joint FAA/NASA helicopter flight test was conducted in the Gulf of Mexico to investigate the airborne weather and mapping radar as an approach system for offshore drilling platforms. Approximately 120 Airborne Radar Approaches (ARA) were flown in a Bell 212 by 15 operational pilots. The objectives of the test were to (1) develop ARA procedures, (2) determine weather minimums, (3) determine pilot acceptability, (4) determine obstacle clearance and airspace requirements. Aircraft position data was analyzed at discrete points along the intermediate, final, and missed approach. The radar system error and radar flight technical error were determined in both range and azimuth, and the capability of the radar as an obstacle avoidance system was evaluated. (Author)