Minima Reduction Simulation Test Results

Abstract

This report presents the results of tests conducted in a Beech-200 (B-200) simulator located at the Beech Learning Center in Wichita, Kansas, and operated by Flight-Safety International (FSI). The testing was conducted to examine the feasibility of reducing approach minimums below Category I by utilizing a highly accurate navigation signal, such as the Microwave Landing System (MLS), when standard Category II approach and runway lighting are not available. Results are presented which indicate that properly trained crews using flight director-equipped aircraft can operate to lower approach minima than standard Category I without fun Category II approach and runway lighting. Performance in the visual segment and touchdown performance is shown to be equivalent regardless of the availability of touchdown zone or runway centerline lighting. The benefits of a Category II approach lighting system (ALSF-2) are mitigated by the fact that when the aircraft breaks out of weather at the lower decision heights (DH's), i.e., 150 feet above ground level (AGL), most of the approach light system is already behind the aircraft. Recommendations are made for further testing in actual aircraft. MLS, DH, Flight director.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 1994
Accession Number
ADA285626

Entities

People

  • Barry Billmann
  • Carl Everberg
  • Edward Pugacz

Organizations

  • Federal Aviation Administration

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircrafts
  • Altimeters
  • Altitude
  • Data Analysis
  • Distance Measuring Equipment
  • Flight Crews
  • Guidance
  • Measurement
  • Microwave Landing Systems
  • Navigation
  • Pilots
  • Radar Altimeters
  • Simulators
  • Statistics
  • Test And Evaluation

Readers

  • Aviation Safety and Air Traffic Management
  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.