Test Pilot

Test pilots work on developing, evaluating and proving experimental aircraft.

History

Test flying as a systematic activity started during the First World War, at the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) in the United Kingdom. During the 1920s, test flying was further developed by the RAE in the UK, and by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) in the United States. In the 1950s, NACA was transformed into the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, or NASA. During these years, as work was done into aircraft stability and handling qualities, test flying evolved towards a more qualitative scientific profession.

Related Topics:
First World War - Royal Aircraft Establishment - United Kingdom - 1920s - National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics - United States - 1950s - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

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The world's oldest test pilot school is what is now called the Empire Test Pilots School, at RAF Boscombe Down in the UK. In America, the United States Air Force Test Pilot School is located at Edwards Air Force Base, and the United States Naval Test Pilot School is located at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland.

Related Topics:
Empire Test Pilots School - RAF Boscombe Down - United States Air Force Test Pilot School - Edwards Air Force Base - United States Naval Test Pilot School - Naval Air Station Patuxent River

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