Frequency domain estimation of the short-period longitudinal stability and control derivatives of an experimental business jet

The results from flight tests are processed by parameter estimation programs to obtain the stability and control derivatives. This study used an experimental composite, twin engine jet aircraft with forward swept wings and high, wing mounted engines. The method used to analyze the flight tests is known as the frequency domain output-error equation-error method. The frequency domain method allows for bandwidth limiting and direct time delay estimation. Frequency domain methods have been around for over fifty years but have only become feasible with the increase in computing power. Accurate modeling of the system is essential for adequate estimate extraction. The extracted stability and control estimates allow for a detailed analysis of the handling qualities of the aircraft.