A series of rigorous tests that aircraft undergo before takeoff are critical for the safety of both passengers and crew. These tests include wing bending, bird strike simulation, hot-cold endurance trials, and lightning tests.
Wing Tests
Wing tests are carefully examined by engineers by subjecting them to loads much higher than the maximum loads that might be encountered during flight. For example, in tests conducted on the Airbus A350 XWB model, the wings have been bent under loads 1.5 times those that might be encountered in flight and showed a deviation of 5 meters. This demonstrates the extraordinary flexibility and durability of the wings.
Bird Strike Tests
Bird strike tests are conducted to determine how resistant aircraft engines are to collisions with birds, even small ones. These tests, using dead chickens, are designed to ensure that engines can continue to operate even after such collisions.
Hot and Cold Endurance Tests
Moreover, hot and cold tests are also crucial to determine how aircraft perform under extreme temperature conditions. Airbus A350 XWB has been subjected to low temperature resistance tests in Canada’s Arctic conditions.
Lightning Tests
Finally, lightning tests, which are conducted for commercial aircraft that experience an average of one lightning strike per year, ensure the protection of aircraft against these natural events. Boeing uses high voltage and current systems to simulate lightning strikes. These tests are essential for the safe operation of aircraft and are carried out with meticulous care.
Source: BBC