During the flight testing phase, what is primarily evaluated?

During the flight testing phase, the primary focus is on Safety and Performance. This critical stage involves rigorous assessments to ensure that the aircraft adheres to all safety regulations and performs as expected under various conditions. Flight tests are specifically designed to evaluate how well the aircraft handles, its response to different maneuvers, stability, and overall airworthiness.

Safety is paramount; thus, any potential issues that might affect the structural integrity or operational capability of the aircraft must be identified and addressed before it enters service. Performance metrics include examining the aircraft’s speed, fuel efficiency, climb rate, and handling qualities, all of which are essential for a successful operational profile.

While other factors, such as Cost Efficiency, Passenger Experience, and Maintenance Needs, are important for the airline's overall strategy and operations, they are typically assessed in different phases of development or after the aircraft has been certified as safe and performing to standards. Therefore, the flight testing phase is predominantly centered on ensuring that the aircraft can operate safely and effectively in the intended flight environment.