AFRL Researchers Conduct Baseline C-130 Tip Tank Flight Demonstrations Published July 17, 2007 By Air Vehicles Directorate AFRL/VA WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- AFRL, in conjunction with Snow Aviation, completed baseline flight demonstrations of a C-130 aircraft. To determine the aircraft's flight characteristics under various conditions, the researchers gathered data as the C-130 completed exercises such as maximum-performance takeoff, roll mode at half aileron deflection, banked turns, and power-off and power-on stalls. The research team also used the demonstrations to determine the aircraft's minimum controllable airspeed. The collaborative effort supports Snow Aviation's plans to modify the C-130 by replacing the aircraft's traditional fuel tanks, which are located under the vehicle's wing, with functional tip tanks. The use of tip tanks may help improve aileron effectiveness and reduce the drag associated with the current configuration, affording better fuel efficiency. The company will employ the data collected during the initial flight demonstrations as a baseline for comparison with future results. Tip tank modification marks one of several updates that Snow Aviation plans to pursue for improving the C-130's short takeoff and landing performance, increasing the aircraft's controllability, and possibly reducing its drag. AFRL will continue to play an integral role throughout the tip tank demonstrations. During the next demonstration, researchers will fly a C-130 equipped with tip tanks. To ensure proper comparison of results, the team will employ methods similar to those used for collecting baseline data. AFRL will then independently assess the data to determine the benefits of the modifications.