The Airbus Military-built A400M military transport aircraft has successfully completed a function and reliability (F&R) flight-testing programme, marking a step forward towards achieving full certification.
Conducted using the first production-representative aircraft, MSN6/Grizzly 5, under conditions of normal in-service environments, the 300-hour F&R testing lasted over one month and included 52 flights across ten different airfields.
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The comprehensive testing confirmed improved reliability of the aircraft’s systems and Europrop International’s TP400 turboprop engines under demanding conditions.
The F&R trails help to reduce risk to operational crews, particularly those faced on new aircraft that enter service.
Airbus Military’s flight and integration tests head Fernando Alonso said the aircraft conducted two flights and 15 flight hours per day over a 26-day timeframe, with only six days to carry out routine maintenance activities.
”The crews have been greatly impressed with the performance of the on-board systems and engines, and we are confident that we have a sound basis for completing the civil and military certification in the next couple of months,” Alonso added.
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By GlobalDataResulting data of the trials is currently under examination by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and a committee appointed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR).
A400M received the restricted Type Certification in May 2012, while the full civil Type Certificate and military initial operating capability is expected in the first quarter of 2013, subject to approval by the relevant authorities.
Airbus is planning to deliver a total of four A400M aircraft starting from second quarter of 2013, including three for the French Air Force (ALA) and one to Turkey.
With a lifting capacity of up to 30t, the Airbus A400M is a multi-national four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft designated as a tactical airlifter with strategic capabilities.
The airlifter can be configured to perform cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, aerial refuelling and electronic surveillance missions.
It has also been ordered by Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, Malaysia and the UK.
Image: The Airbus Military A400M aircraft during high altitude testing. Photo: courtesy of Airbus.
