Pilot simulation tests of propulsion control as backup to loss of primary flight controls for a mid-size jet transport

Abstract

Partial failures of aircraft primary flight-control systems and structural damages to aircraft during flight have led to catastrophic accidents with subsequent loss of life. These accidents can be prevented if sufficient alternate control authority remains which can be used by the pilot to execute an emergency safe landing. Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC) investigated the use of engine thrust for emergency flight control. Using an F-15 aircraft, NASA DFRC successfully demonstrated in 1993 in a series of 36 flights, including actual propulsion controlled aircraft (PCA) landings, that throttle control of engines alone can be used to augment or replace the aircraft primary flight-control system to safely land the aircraft. NASA DFRC conducted flight tests in Aug.-Dec. 1995 of the MD-11 jet transport utilizing engine thrust for backup flight control. A series of three piloted simulation tests have been conducted at Ames Research Center to investigate propulsion control for safely landing a mid-size jet transport which has experienced a total primary flight-control failure. This report describes the concept of a PCA, discusses pilot controls, displays, and procedures; and presents the results of a series of three piloted simulation evaluations of the concept by a cross-section of air transport pilots.