The United States Army Aviation Engineering Activity conducted an airworthiness and flight characteristics evaluation of the OH-58C Interim Scout helicopter. Performance, handling qualities, and vibration characteristics were evaluated to provide engineering test data for use in the OH-58C Operator's Manual and to detect any aircraft deficiencies or shortcomings. The OH-58C was tested at Edwards Air Force Base, California (elevation 2302 feet), and alternate test site elevations of 4120, and 9980 feet. A total of 97 flights were conducted for a total of 123.5 flight hours. Due to the more powerful T63-A-720 engine installed in the helicopter, the hover and takeoff capability at heavy gross weights and high altitudes and the forward flight climb performance of the OH-58C is significantly improved over the OH-58A. Performance in terms of power required and fuel flow is slightly degraded when compared to the OH-58A at similar gross weights and altitudes and in general did not meet the estimates of the detail specification for the OH-58C. The handling qualities and vibrations of the OH-58C are similar to the OH-58A when operating at similar gross weights and altitudes. Three handling qualities deficiencies relative to the low speed flight characteristics were identified.
Airworthiness and Flight Characteristics Evaluation. OH-58C Interim Scout Helicopter
1979
205 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch