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A design study was performed for an advanced subsonic transport having a payload of 150 passengers and a 2500 NMi range with maximum payload. The development of the baseline aircraft is explained with attention to geometric constraints, design for growth, operational requirements, and interior layout. Computer modeling was performed using a new version of AirCraft SYNThesis (ACSYNT) which includes: an integrated beam structural analysis method for the wing and fuselage; NASA Engine Performance Program (NEPP) for propulsion cycle and weights analysis; and Aircraft Life Cycle Cost Analysis (ALCCA) for manufacturing and operations cost and cash flow analyses. All programs are incorporated within ACSYNT to permit optimization of the input parameters, with either aircraft gross weight or design mission direct operating cost as a figure of merit. In addition, sensitivity studies of the best design are presented for wing aspect ratio and engine design point bypass ratio.

A piloted comparison of rigid and aeroelastic blade-element rotor models was conducted on the Crew Station Research and Development Facility (CSRDF) at Ames Research Center. FLIGHTLAB, a new simulation development and analysis tool, was used to implement these models in real time using parallel processing technology. Pilot comments and quantitative analysis performed both on-line and off-line confirmed that elastic degrees of freedom significantly affect perceived handling qualities. Trim comparisons show improved correlation with flight test data when elastic modes are modeled. The results demonstrate the efficiency with which the mathematical modeling sophistication of existing simulation facilities can be upgraded using parallel processing, and the importance of these upgrades to simulation fidelity.