EFT develops Variable Stability Aircraft

As part of a research project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), Euro Flight Test (EFT), together with its partners, is developing a Variable Stability Aircraft (VSA).

The project focuses on the integration of an experimental electronic flight control system, enabling aircraft handling qualities to be modified through software. This approach allows the creation of an innovative training platform for the education of Test Pilots (TP) and Flight Test Engineers (FTE).

With the VSA, it becomes possible to demonstrate a wide range of flight characteristics in real flight conditions. Future TPs and FTEs will be able to experience and assess even challenging or degraded handling qualities, significantly enhancing their evaluation skills and professional judgment.

In addition, the platform enables the efficient demonstration of modern flight control concepts, which are typically only found on large fly-by-wire aircraft. By transferring these capabilities to a light aircraft, advanced control laws can be explored in a flexible and cost-effective manner.

Compared to the business jets traditionally used for variable stability training, the use of a light aircraft (Remos GX) will significantly reduce both environmental impact and operating costs, while maintaining a high level of training effectiveness.