Simulator and/or Aircraft Validation

Flight validation has traditionally always been performed in an aircraft. Validation was performed in conjunction with flight inspection, and troublesome terrain and unidentified obstacles were noted and reviewed. With the availability of accurate digital terrain models and surveys, unidentified obstacles and troublesome terrain vanished.

Using full-flight simulators for flight validation provides a more flexible, cost-effective and controlled testing environment than flight inspection aircraft. Simulators are available in a wide range of aircraft types, and allow for multiple test runs to be conducted quickly, efficiently and more economically. Environmental conditions and specific scenarios can be easily set. Simulators can also provide a very realistic assessment of human factors and pilot performance, as well as allow for detailed analysis of data and results.

Simulator usage for flight validation has some limitations, as they can only accurately reflect the real world once it has been thoroughly assessed. Therefore, flight validation in an aircraft could still be required to validate specific elements of an IFP, for example, obstacles, lighting or runway markings.

Ultimately, the flight validation method, or combination of methods, depends on various factors such as the type and complexity of the IAP, regulatory requirements, available resources, and other considerations. In most cases, validation in a full-flight simulator may be the most appropriate tool, while in others, a flight inspection aircraft used for validation may provide a suitable alternative or supplement. It is important to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of each method and choose the best approach based on the specific needs and objectives of the flight validation process.