Creating a new field of aircraft is a risky business, and no part is riskier than flight tests. Protecting the public, the pilot and your precious prototype are very important. We were honoured that Martin Aircraft Company chose us as their development partner when they explored the limits of their flight control system.

They needed to test the flight control system’s and show its effectiveness while looking for operational improvements. This was a crucial development stage, where the company would see the success of its ground-breaking technology. If prototypes were damaged it would delay development and add extensive cost.

Before this, we had worked with Martin Aircraft Company on component testing, but this project was the most ambitious yet. Their needs were simple:

1. Allow the aircraft to fly freely in a restricted sphere.

2. Catch the aircraft if the flight control system had an error.

While the needs were straight forward, the design required serious thought. With our track record of overcoming challenging and unique problems, we knew we’d find the solution.

Safety is very important in all Martin Aircraft Company activities, and the development of the 6-DOF fall arrest system was no exception. Our clever solution was safe for operators and prevented aircraft damage to, all while providing the freedom to thoroughly test the machine to its limits. This provided the Martin Aircraft team with invaluable data, peace of mind (and the occasional sigh of relief) with the knowledge their prototype would be in one piece at the end of the tests.

The test programme was a great success. Completed on time with no damaged prototypes, avoiding any major delays or costs, Martin Aircraft Company now have the utmost confidence in their system. They’re now working on manned flights and our system will be ready and waiting to allow them to safely explore the limits of their system once more.

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