Flight test certification of primary category aircraft using TP101-41E sportplane design standard

Abstract

This article discusses certification standards, flight testing, and type certification of a primary category aircraft using the Transport Canada TP101-41E Ultra-Light Design Standard as the certification basis. For many years manufacturers maintained that certification standards were overly restrictive with regard to small aircraft of simple design, and therefore, restrict growth and innovation in the small airplane industry. Government agencies in conjunction with industry set forth to design a streamlined certification standard for these type aircraft. The primary category rule for type certification of aircraft of simple design intended for pleasure or personal use was adopted. Presented is an overview of certification and flight test of the Quicksilver GT 500 aircraft that was certified under the primary rule using the Transport Canada TP101-41E Ultra-Light Design Standard. Certification flight test plans and flight test techniques used to gather data are presented. Flight test data and compliance with TP101-41E are discussed. Noncompliant findings are discussed. The Quicksilver GT 500, the first aircraft certified in the primary category, was awarded a provisional-type certificate on August 1, 1993.