AA 241A Assignment 1

Due Thrsday, October 1, 2009


1. In AA241 you will be developing a complete preliminary design using realistic methods for analysis of aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion systems. The aircraft to be designed will be the focus of your efforts throughout the course. Therefore it is desirable that you select an aircraft type and a mission that is of greatest interest to you; however, not all aircraft are appropriate for this purpose. The first assignment, then, involves selecting a certain aircraft mission. Select from one of the following aircraft types:

An efficient regional jet.
Range 1600 n.mi.
Passengers 100
Field Length 6,500 ft.
Mach # 0.7 - 0.8
Similar to recent designs by Bombardier, Embraer

An environmentally friendly airliner.
Range 3000 n.mi.
Passengers 150
Field Length 7,500 ft.
Mach # .72 to .82
A very efficient design.

A supersonic business jet
Range 4200 n.mi.
Passengers 8-12
Field Length < 6,500 ft.
Mach # 1.5 to 2.0

A very light jet (Air Taxi)
Range 1000 n.mi.
Passengers 4
Field Length < 3,000 ft.
Mach # 0.6 to 0.8


Having selected the aircraft type, discuss in about two pages the intended role for such an aircraft, investigate any similar aircraft and make estimates of the following parameters (just based on similar aircraft): initial cruise altitude, maximum gross weight, wing area, engine thrust

Include information on other aircraft of this sort (from magazine and journal articles, Jane's All the World's Aircraft, or other available materials) and comment on any of the design specifications above that you think should be changed.