The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has published initial findings from a study about the effects on eVTOL aircraft operations of downwash, which is the column of downward-accelerated air generated by rotors or other propulsors. The agency noted that it intends for its CAP2576 report to prompt discussions with aircraft manufacturers and operators and that the study does not necessarily constitute the basis for any future legislation.
The CAA said the report seeks to extend knowledge of downwash beyond that derived from long-standing helicopter operations. It acknowledged that the new work is based on a limited number of “dynamic cases and vehicle orientations” and said that initial conclusions highlight the need for a more focused analysis of downwash issues. The report, published earlier this month, was produced jointly with Richard Brown, a consultant engineer with Sophrodyne Aerospace.
