Risk in Production Test Flights

by Brian Carroll
(San Diego)

FAR 21.197 allows some relaxation of rules compared to full certification for continuous operation. It also covers aircraft before they are proven in flight, so there is an additional safety risk.

Does the FAA have an estimate or goal as to how much percentage increase in probability of a loss of aircraft event would be allowable or targeted in the production flight environment relative to normal flight environments?

ANSWER: That is an interesting question and one that I cannot answer. I will have to refer you to one of the aircraft certification offices that oversee production test flights. Please contact the Los Angeles ACO at TEL: 1 (562) 627-5200, or FAX: (562) 627-5210