Advancing Fly-by-Wire and Ground Handling Performance

Dr. Mike Jones

01/12/2025

Aerospace

At Systems Technology, Inc. (STI), we help engineers and pilots understand and improve how aircraft behave—both in the air and on the ground. Our work in fly-by-wire control and ground handling combines decades of flight dynamics expertise with proven modeling and analysis capabilities.

Fly-by-Wire: Precision in Flight Control

STI’s fly-by-wire experience began with an independent assessment of the Space Shuttle’s pitch-axis control law—the first operational fly-by-wire system. Since then, we’ve supported the design and analysis of control systems for military and commercial transports, fighters, business jets, and rotorcraft.

Our methods integrate classical control insights with modern optimal and adaptive design techniques. We’ve worked with the FAA, NASA, and the Department of Defense to develop design requirements and handling qualities criteria, with particular focus on understanding and mitigating Pilot-Induced Oscillations caused by actuator rate limiting.

Ground Handling: Stability on the Runway

STI also applies flight control principles to ground operations, helping manufacturers and operators better predict aircraft behavior during landing rollout and taxi. Beginning in the late 1990s, we developed modeling approaches that place tire characteristics—rather than aerodynamic effects—at the center of ground handling analysis.

Our capabilities include model development, analysis, computer and piloted simulation, and flight test support. This work has supported programs such as the U.S. Navy’s jet trainer and recent unmanned aerial vehicle efforts.

Complete Control Across Every Phase

From fly-by-wire design to ground handling evaluation, STI provides a full view of aircraft dynamics. Our experiences help reduce risk, improve controllability, and enhance safety from takeoff through rollout.

Contact us to learn how STI can support your next flight control or ground handling program:
https://www.systemstech.com/aerospace/contact-us