Lessons Learned from SETP Symposium

I received this summary of list of lessons learned from someone who attended the Society of Experimental Test Pilots Symposium recently held in Anaheim California.

• If a test point is not required, reconsider the risk involved - it may be unnecessary risk
• Simulated testing is good but it's not everything
• Build safety down days & exercises into your schedule
• Don't trust modeling or databases when you CAN do your own surveying
• Risk is not defined in test cards, processes
• Stress the system early
• Education & experience make a flight test professional
• Control your own data
• Perform vigorous checks for code errors
• Work toward objectives but be aware of new paths as they open (don't tunnel vision)
• Lack of proper documentation increases troubleshooting requirements (expect longer learning curves when there is a lack of documentation)
• Don't believe all tribal lore as face value - trust but verify!
• Buildup is essential
• Data collection - always record if practical!!!
• Operations are only as good as procedures/limitations
• Challenge if it doesn't make sense - published manuals can be wrong
• Weight & Balance reports are often taken for granted
• Test worst hazards in the final configuration
• Safety systems must be robust
• Take time to critically reevaluate the plan when unexpected results occur
• Bring engineers and flight testers in early-on in design & test development planning
• Can you fly without it? Safety vs. Efficiency
• Pick a horse (proven method/process) and ride it
• Don't get hornswoggled by the nerds
• Beware of being too far out of the box
• Better, Faster, Cheaper" - pick two