09/11/2018
RANS S-21 OUTBOUND
TEXT MANUAL
35
DURATION OF MANDATORY FLIGHT TEST PERIOD
For standard aircraft type engines: When an FAA approved aircraft engine/propeller
combination is installed, the flight test period is usually limited to 25 hours of flight time.
For automotive engines, non-FAA approved engines or propellers, or FAA approved
engines and propellers where the combination is not approved, an aircraft equipped
with such an engine/propeller combination is required to be flown for a longer test
period, usually at least 40 hours, to prove its reliability.
NOTE:
It should be understood that the local FAA Inspector has the prime
responsibility in determining the extent of the flight test period to be
required for your aircraft. He is permitted to exercise considerable
discretion in extending or in reducing the number of hours required to be
flown during this period.
FLIGHT TEST AREA
The FAA Inspector will authorize the flight tests to be carried out in a designated and
limited test area, usually within a 25 mile
radius of the aircraft’s base of operations.
He will insure the area selected is not over densely populated areas or in a congested
airway.
In assigning the flight test area, the FAA Inspector may modify the size and shape of the
area to suit the best purposes of the flight test program. In some locations, particularly
around bigger cities where air traffic is heavy, a flight test area may not be practical. The
builder must be prepared to except that an approved flight test area may not be the one
chosen to him as the most convenient.
OTHER LIMITATIONS DURING THE FLIGHT TEST PERIOD
As a rule, the carrying of passengers or other crew members will not be permitted
unless necessary to the safe operation of that aircraft.
AIRCRAFT FLIGHT LOG
During the flight test period, the pilot should record the aircraft flight history in an
appropriate log book. This should be in addition to any engine tach, hour meter, or
engine hour meter that may be installed in the aircraft.
