Flight tests with unmanned aircraft – safe, versatile, practical
Flight testing is a key component in the evaluation and advancement of new technologies in aviation – especially with unmanned aircraft. The DLR Institute of Flight Systems has extensive experience in experimental operations with a wide range of flight platforms.
Flight testing expertise from drones to passenger aircraft
The institute draws on decades of experience in flight testing – ranging from small drones and transport drones to helicopters and manned passenger aircraft. Flight testing is always a key step in validation and further developing new technologies under real-world conditions.
Flight testing of unmanned aircraft under realistic conditions
A particular focus is placed on the safe operation of unmanned aircraft both within visual line of sight (VLOS) and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). All subsystems are taken into consideration – from the ground station and the communication link to the aircraft itself. The institute supports the implementation of BVLOS operations with technical expertise, assistance in obtaining the necessary approvals in accordance with the EASA Specific category (including SORA - Specific Operations Risk Assessment), and access to specialized test centres such as the National Test Centre in Cochstedt.
Diverse test fleet and innovative technologies
Our extensive test fleet includes multicopters, helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, gyrocopters, and VTOL systems. A key component is our specially developed test pilot station, which virtually places the drone operator in the cockpit and enables realistic first-person-view (FPV) control – supported by innovative technologies such as virtual and mixed reality, forced feedback, and model-based latency compensation to enhance safety and efficiency.
Comprehensive support from planning to execution
The institute provides end-to-end support for flight test campaigns – from selecting suitable platforms and integrating new technologies to risk assessment, system testing, and transitioning into operational use. Coordination with authorities, as well as the provision of ground control stations and safety pilots, are also part of the service portfolio.
Augmented reality glasses in the DLR research helicopter ACT/FHS
Scientists at the Institute of Flight Systems have integrated an augmented reality headset (Microsoft HoloLens) into the cockpit of the ACT/FHS for research purposes. The headset serves as a flexible and cost-effective head-mounted display (HMD).
View through an AR glasses in the cockpit of the DLR research helicopter ACT/FHS
Scientists from the Institute of Flight Systems are exploring the potential applications of AR glasses (e.g., Microsoft HoloLens) in the cockpit. Through the visual perception channel, pilots can be intuitively informed with outside view-compliant virtual overlays. This can reduce workload and enhance situational awareness.
The unmanned DLR helicopter superARTIS near a wind turbine
The test flight with the unmanned DLR superARTIS helicopter was an important milestone for the 'Upcoming Drones Windfarm' project. The project, which is being carried out by the DLR Institute of Flight Systems together with the energy company EnBW, focuses on the question of whether drones can take over transport tasks for offshore wind farms and relieve maintenance personnel.
