Process model of configuration management for aircraft testing

The article characterizes the essence of configuration management in aircraft testing. It presents the concept of a systemic approach to the quality of configuration management processes, configuration identification, change control, status accounting, and configuration auditing, with examples of its application within the framework of aircraft testing. A process model for configuration management in aircraft testing is presented.INTRODUCTION
In the process of designing, modernizing, or extending the service life of aircraft (AC), ground and flight tests are an essential element confirming their assumed functional and/or physical properties. Obtaining results, especially from flight tests, is primarily associated with high costs and implementation deadlines. This is influenced by, among others:
• scope of testing, • test schedule, • airport infrastructure and access to it, • personnel competence, • atmospheric conditions.
All the above factors must be optimally selected to obtain necessary and reliable results.
In AC testing, regulations [3] apply, which might seem to fully exhaust the regulations related to the procedure in this area. However, practice shows that every AC test is an individual project that, while based on proven techniques, must be adapted to current needs. For this reason, the AC testing process should be supported by effectively operating systems, i.e., among others:
• quality, environmental, occupational safety, and information security management, • configuration, risk, reliability, and maintainability management. (…)

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