Missions such as this were specifically structured to allow data collection and analysis of the performance and stability of the UH-17 aircraft
Air Force Agency: TC Cantaluppi, TC José Márcio, Cap Guilherme Rocha
In September, under the coordination of the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology (DCTA) and the execution of the Institute for Research and Flight Tests (IPEV), evaluation tests were carried out in São José dos Campos (SP) on the UH-17 (Airbus Helicopter H-135) aircraft operated by the HU-1 Squadron of the Brazilian Navy (MB) during operations in Antarctica.
The flight test missions were specifically structured to collect data and analyze the performance and stability of the UH-17 aircraft at low speeds, making it possible to increase the safety of operations in Antarctic territory.
To this end, the activities were carried out with crews from the HU-1 Squadron, pilots and flight test engineers. High-definition cameras were also installed in the cockpit and instruments to indicate the position of the directional control, as well as ground support in terms of precise information on wind conditions.
According to the activity’s manager, Lieutenant Colonel Alexandre Cantaluppi Silvestri de Freitas, the results of the tests carried out by IPEV will give Navy crew members new skills. “Pilots will be able to identify the most favorable and most unfavorable wind conditions for approaching aircraft, both on land and on board landing approaches, thus increasing the safety of the operation,” he explained.
By determining the aircraft’s performance and stability characteristics, DCTA is providing technical support to the Brazilian Navy, reaffirming the Ministry of Defense’s commitment to safety and innovation, in order to pave the way for safe and efficient operations, even in places with severe weather conditions, such as Antarctica.
Photos: IPEV