How is piloted simulation used in flight dynamics development?

Piloted simulation supports: Control law development (tuning gains, evaluating handling qualities before flight), Envelope expansion planning (predicting behavior at test points), Failure mode analysis (evaluating handling with system failures), Pilot training for new aircraft or procedures, Accident investigation (reproducing scenarios), and Certification evidence (showing compliance in cases hard to flight test). Fidelity levels range from engineering desktop to full Level-D flight simulators with motion. Key elements: Accurate aerodynamic database, Representative cockpit and controls, Appropriate visual and motion cues, and Qualified test pilots for evaluation. Simulation reduces flight test risk and cost while enabling thorough evaluation.