Limited Evaluation Canadair CL-215 Amphibious Airplane.

A limited evaluation of the Canadair CL-215 amphibious airplane was conducted. A total of 58.8 flight hours were accumulated. Engineering flight tests were conducted to evaluate the performance, handling qualities, airplane cockpit, and bio-environmental conditions and to provide information for use by the United States Forest Service Screening and Evaluation Board. Compliance with the provisions of the United States Forest Service desirable criteria, and military specifications MIL-F-8785ASG and MIL-A-8806A was determined. The performance characteristics of the CL-215 airplane, as presented in the airplane flight manual, are serviceable. The excellent water-handling characteristics and functional cockpit layout enhanced the mission suitability of the CL-215 airplane. No deficiencies and 14 shortcomings were identified during the evaluation. Correction of the following shortcomings affecting flying qualities is recommended for improved mission accomplishment excessive longitudinal control force in maneuvering flight and during configuration changes, limited rolling performance, excessive lateral control force during rolling maneuvers, and inadequate flight control system harmony during maneuvering flight. Nine additional shortcomings were identified and correction recommended. The handling qualities were acceptable for the airtanker mission. If the airplane is used to transport personnel, acoustical protection and heating and ventilating should be provided in the passengercargo compartment. The maximum landing weight limitation should be increased to allow landing with a full retardant payload.