Flight test article (FTA) refers to a prototype, mock-up, or early production unit constructed solely to undergo ground and flight testing. Engineers use these articles to validate aerodynamics, structural integrity, and systems integration before committing to full-scale production. They are heavily instrumented with sensors and often pushed beyond normal operating limits to ensure safety margins.
Heard on the job
We need the telemetry package installed on the FTA before Tuesday's taxi tests.
Insider tip
FTAs are rarely flown by regular line pilots; they are strictly the domain of experimental test pilots and flight test engineers.