Definition
Structured in-flight evaluations conducted to verify that an aircraft, system, or instrument performs within its specified tolerances and meets airworthiness or operational standards. In the pitot/static context, flight tests are part of the certification and periodic checks that confirm altimeters, airspeed indicators, and related instruments read accurately under actual flight conditions.
Plain English
Real flights done specifically to check that the aircraft and its instruments work correctly and within allowed limits.
Context Anchor
Seen in pitot/static system discussions when an instrument or system must be verified under actual flying conditions.
Why Pilots Care
Confirms instruments can be trusted before entering instrument conditions.
Intuition Check
Do not read “flight tests” as written exams about flying. Here, it means practical checks made during an actual flight.
Example Sentence 1
After the new altimeter was installed, the aircraft was scheduled for flight tests to confirm the readings matched known altitudes.
Example Sentence 2
The handbook lists several flight tests that compare indicated airspeed against known power settings and pitch attitudes.