VMC Left Turn Curved Approaches, Test Results.
Abstract
Flight tests were conducted at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Technical Center in 1989 and 1990 to aid in answering questions concerning curved approaches to a heliport under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). These questions include protected airspace within the curved segment of the approach, the most feasible angle of turn and minimum final approach segment. The FAA's Sikorsky S-76 and UH-1H were used for these tests. Data were collected from approaches using turn angles of 45-, 90-, and 180-degrees, each with three different final segments, 800, 1200, and 1600 feet (ft). Due to airspace restrictions at the time of these tests, left turns to final were flown. All maneuvers were tracked by ground-based tracking systems. This report documents the results of these flights. The test procedures, evaluation methodology, and technical and operational issues are described. Analysis of pilot performance as well as pilot subjective input are provided. Conclusions are presented that address the airspace, turn angle, and final segment issues. The results will be considered in future modifications of the FAA Heliport Design Advisory Circular, AC 150/5390-2. All appendixes can be found in Research Directorate for Aviation Technology Division Report DOT/FAA/CT-ACD33093/6, Appendixes for TN92/46 VMC Left Turn Curved Approaches, Test Results. Curved approaches, Approach surface, Final approach segment, Heliport, VMC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA269476
Entities
People
- Rosanne M. Weiss
Organizations
- Federal Aviation Administration