Werx's first flight tests
Werx at Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research has completed the first pre-modification baseline test flight for the Kansas Modification Centre’s 777-300ERCF p2f conversion programme. The three-hour flight was conducted to capture data on the aircraft’s systems, which will be used to develop and certify the freighter modifications.
Subsequent flights will measure the effects of various flight manoeuvres and landing loads, as well as other aircraft systems performance. Last week, the state of Kansas approved USD 35 million in matching funds over the next five years for workforce and economic development through Wichita State’s Niar Werx MRO programme.
Also last week, Kansas-based Dynamic NC produced the first structural replacement parts for the conversion programme, including a 230-inch (584 cm) aluminium floor beam and a side frame. (ah)