Flight test evaluation of trim tab stabilisation system on a PZL-130 orlik aircraft

Purpose The paper presents the results of the final phase of the project, namely flight tests, aimed at developing a stabilisation system utilizing trim tabs for the PZL-130 Orlik turboprop military trainer aircraft. Design/methodology/approach The proposed flight stabilisation system was developed using modern techniques of model-based design, automatic code generation and software and hardware-in-the-loop testing. The project progressed to the flight testing stage, enabling the assessment of the control system’s quality and its final calibration. Findings Analysis of the results obtained during flight tests confirmed the high quality of the stabilisation system. Specifically, the anticipated accuracy of both longitudinal and lateral channel stabilisation was achieved. Originality/value The proposed flight stabilisation system, utilizing trim tabs, offers several advantages over classic automatic flight systems in terms of weight, energy consumption, structural simplicity and obviates the need for primary control modifications on the aircraft. It was developed using modern techniques of model-based design, automatic code generation and hardware-in-the-loop simulations.