Derivation of perturbed equations of motion of aircraft

Abstract

Flight dynamics courses are exciting except for the part where instructors derive long and complicated equations for seemingly endless time. Most students are left bewildered at the dull algebra. A refreshing approach to present the derivation of the equations of motion of aircraft is exemplified in this paper. The method is based on the finding that the students appreciate the algebra better if they are enlightened about the logic behind it. The derivation of the perturbed equations is unfolded through the theory of stability in the first approximation. Although the concept is as old as the equations themselves, it is amazing that it is not explained in this manner in books. The author’s teaching experience has shown that this approach has led to substantial amelioration of the course. Students who are learning the course for the first time find the derivation of equations as gripping as the remaining portion when taught in this fashion.