Comparison of dynamic and performance equations of motion as applied to simulations of aircraft behavior during microburst encounter

Much of the current literature regarding optimal flight paths through microbursts encompasses research based on the performance equations of motion (EOM). These equations are valid for flight mechanics analyses, such as range and time to climb, but are not derived for simulation of flight within an unsteady atmosphere. The assumption of a quasi-steady flowfield and the neglect both of vehicle orientation and of moments acting on the aircraft prove to be particularly discrediting aspects of this model.; In this study the performance EOM are compared to the three-degree-of-freedom dynamic EOM, valid for steady and unsteady flowfields, using both linear frequency response and nonlinear time response. It is concluded that the performance EOM generate some realistic trends, but in general do not appear to adequately model aircraft behavior through the severely unsteady atmosphere indicative of microbursts.