NLR-Netherlands Aerospace Centre conducted a number of tests last week at Twente Airport, using the NLR test aircraft, a Cessna Citation business jet. On Tuesday 13 September, a number of brake tests was carried out on a runway that was sprayed with water. Additional brake tests using the test aircraft were performed on Thursday 15 September and Friday 16 September in a water tank constructed on part of the runway.
NLR was looking for a location to conduct a number of special tests. The test site had to offer sufficient space and needed to include a runway with a POSSEHL ANTISKID® top layer. This top layer is manufactured by the specialized firm Possehl, and enhances safety for aircraft landing under wet conditions. The tests were being performed to accurately determine the roughness of the runway under rainy conditions. Six large tank trucks sprayed huge quantities of water on the runway, immediately followed by a landing of the test aircraft.
Further brake tests using the test aircraft were performed on Thursday 15 September and Friday 16 September in a water tank constructed on part of the runway. The volume of water in this tank simulated actual runway conditions during heavy rainfall. The purpose of these tests was to determine how the aircraft’s braking system performed under such extreme conditions. The knowledge gained will be used to optimise the applicable regulations, which in turn will help increase safety. The tests on Thursday and Friday were performed as part of a European study aimed at improving aviation safety.
