CSeries FTV4 takes off Image Credit: Patrick Cardinal Bombardier confirmed that the CSeries program has successfully completed the flutt...
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CSeries FTV4 takes off Image Credit: Patrick Cardinal |
The first CS100 flight test vehicle (FTV1) stationed in Wichita, Kansas performed the flutter tests at a wide range of speeds and altitudes.
During the tests, FTV1 was pushed to its design speed and altitude limits – achieving dive speeds as high as Mach 0.91 and altitudes up to 12,497 metres (41,000 feet).
The test confirmed the aircraft´s damping properties, how effectively it reduces oscillations.
Based on the assessment of the flight test program, Bombardier said all the flight test vehicles are now cleared to fly in fly-by-wire normal mode throughout their full flight envelope.
“It was thrilling to see the CSeries fly beyond its maximum operating speeds of Mach 0.82 and up to an impressive Mach 0.91 – this demonstrated to our teams that the CSeries has exceptional maneuverability and is responding in flight completely as expected,” said Robert Dewar, Vice President, CSeries Program.
The program is proving to be a big mistake for Bombardier with developmental delays and rising cost. The CSeries program will now cost US$5.4 billion, a US$1-billion increase from the previous estimate.
The CS100, which is slated for Entry Into Service by second quarter of 2015, has only completed close to 1000 flight hours, of the about 2500 required for certification.
The stretched CS300 FTV has joined the flight test program and should accomplish its inaugural flight by the end of the first quarter.
