Flying qualities and performance evaluation of the CH-47D helicopter

In light of serious structural problems and the recent increase in the mishap rate of the CH-53E, the Navy and Marine Corps are looking for a replacement heavy lift helicopter for their troop and cargo transport role. Testing was conducted on the CH-47D helicopter to evaluate its potential as a replacement aircraft for the assault support mission. The evaluation was conducted during two ground assessment periods totalling 4.0 hr and three flights totalling 6.0 hr. Flying qualities and performance characteristics were evaluated on a production representative aircraft based upon typical mission utilization.

Flight testing revealed that during shutdown, excessive time was spent below minimum rotor RPM for ground operations, which increased the chance of droop stop pounding and possible blade/fuselage contact. The manual blade fold system was extremely labor intensive which will cause considerable delay in aircraft turn-around time, and increase the chance of personnel injury. These two Part 1 deficiencies will have a significant impact during shipboard operations and should be corrected prior to fleet deployment. Flight testing also revealed nine Part 11 deficiencies which should be corrected as soon as practicable, and eighteen Part 111 iii deficiencies which should be avoided In future designs. The CH-47D helicopter demonstrated excellent potential for the assault support mission, and will be satisfactory upon correction of the Part I deficiencies.