Flight Testing
 

As a new Commercial Pilot, ex-flying instructor, I have assisted in many flight tests on both piston and jet a/c. Does anyone know of the requirements to becoming a "test pilot" for GA aircraft ?

There are a number of answers to this.

For C of A GA aircraft, virtually no genuine test flying goes on in the UK outside of the one manufacturer (Slingsby) who have their own full-time people (OK, person).

C of A renewal flights are carried out, usually by the senior QFI at the school / airfield which operates the aircraft applying to the CAA for the appropriate status. A few licensed technicians who have a lot of flying experience also have a ticket to do this.

For permit GA aircraft (Europas, Kitfoxes and the like) genuine test flying does go on under the control of the PFA. There is no formal qualification route, basically you need to befriend somebody building an aircraft who has the good sense not to try and do their own test flying, then impress Francis Donaldson (the PFA's Chief Engineer) sufficiently that he'll let you loose.

For microlights, the BMAA has a formal examination system for qualifying test pilots; the minima for entry at TP2 level is generally an experienced check pilot with 300hrs+ P1 microlights, or an experienced test pilot from elsewhere with significant microlight experience. The syllabus (which also pretty much covers what you'd need for testing PFA permit aircraft) is at http//www.bmaa.org/tech2.htm - select "Technical Information Leaflets" then look for it in the list.

For Permit / C of A renewals on microlights, homebuilts and gliders the three associations (BMAA, PFA, BGA) each have their own system for qualifying "Check Pilots" which generally involves a "clean" flying record, at least 150hrs P1 on class, and the need for somebody where you are to do permit renewals.

Hope this helps, Email me if you need pointing at specific people / textbooks.

G

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