How are brand new airplanes tested?

Question

I’ve often wondered, once a factory builds a brand new airplane do they fly them before the client purchases them? Who is the person what would “test fly” them to make sure all systems are good to go?

In: 4

Answer 1

Generally, yes, aircraft are flight tested before delivery. The manufacturers employ test pilots for this purpose (who also test new designs which is arguably more dangerous).

It’s basically to ensure that all systems function as expected prior to delivery.