The Arrangement

In a step-by-step manner, I have developed an approach to aircraft design methodology at the conceptual stage that can be followed in the classroom, from the initial stages of finding a market to the final stages of freezing the aircraft configuration. In the aircraft industry, after the “go-ahead” is obtained, the development program moves to the next phase (i.e., the Project [or Product] Definition Phase), which is not within the scope of this book. The book covers two semesters of work: the first, from Chapters 1 through 13, encompasses the conceptual design; and the second, from Chapters 14 through 17, deals with a more detailed exposition of the first semester's work, advancing the concept through more analysis. Some of the second-semester work on cost and manufacturing considerations may require outside, aeronautical school assistance. The recommended two-semester curriculum is outlined at the end of this road map.

The chapters are arranged linearly; there is not much choice in tailoring a course. I attempt to keep the treatise interesting by citing historical cases. The main driver for readers is the motivation to learn. Except for Chapter 1, the book is written in the third person. (Actual coursework starts in Chapter 6 after a brief mock market survey by the students, as discussed in Chapter 2.)

I omit discussions of vertical takeoff and landing/short takeoff and landing (VTOL/STOL), as well as helicopters in their entirety – these subjects require their own extensive treatment.