Mahindra GIPPSAERO GA8-TC 320, Operating Handbook

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Section 7
Aircraft & Systems
Model GA8-TC 320 Description
Page 7-2 5 Feb 2009 C01-01-08
7.1 INTRODUCTION
This section provides descriptions of the aircraft and it’s systems as well as methods of operation
where appropriate. Optional equipment that may be installed is described in Section 9.
7.2 AIRFRAME
The GA8-TC 320 is an eight place, single engine, high wing monoplane utilising stressed skin
metal construction. The aircraft is designed for passenger and/or freight type operations.
Seating is provided in the passenger configuration for the pilot and seven passengers in four
rows of two seats. The passenger seats are easily removed to convert the aircraft for freight
operations.
Wings The wings are of all metal stressed skin construction, but are externally braced with a
streamline section strut that bolts to the lower fuselage members and wing spar fittings. The
main fuel tanks are incorporated in the inner wing panels between the main and rear wing spars
and between the wing strut attachment fittings and the fuselage. The wing tips are removable
for easier access to the internal wing structure and for easy replacement. The ailerons are fully
balanced and are cable controlled out to the aileron, then actuated via a bellcrank and pushrod.
The wing flaps are mechanically opera ted.
Fuselage The fuselage is of all metal stressed skin aluminium construction and is corrosion
protected both internally and externally. Numerous inspection panels are supplied both internal
and externally allowing ease of maintenance, inspection of the control cables, and cleaning the
interior of the rear fuselage.
Empennage The empennage consists of the fin, rudder, adjustable stabiliser, and elevators. All
are constructed of 2024 Aluminium alloy sheet and are of stressed skin design.
7.3 FLIGHT CONTROLS
The aircraft’s flight control system consists of conventional aileron, rudder and elevator control
surfaces. These are manually operated by conventional cable linkages. The control column
is of a wheel and yoke variety. The control column actuates the ailerons and elevators in the
conventional manner while the rudder pedals operate the rudder.
The aileron and elevator controls may be locked by securing the control column with the pilot’s
seat belt when the aircraft is parked on the ground. This will prevent damage to these systems
by wind buffeting.
Trim System The elevator trim control is located on the left side of the cockpit centre console
and consists of a cable operated trim drum arrangement to adjust the stabiliser angle of
incidence. Selection of nose up trim pivots the leading edge of the stabiliser downwards.
01 Aug 2011