CS 31GB.12 Proof of compliance
ED Decision 2011/012/R
Each requirement of this Subpart must be met at each mass within the range of loading conditions for which certification is requested. This must be shown by:
(a) tests upon a balloon of the type for which certification is requested or by calculations based on, and equal in accuracy to, the results of testing; and
(b) systematic investigation of each mass if compliance cannot be reasonably inferred from the masses investigated.
ED Decision 2011/012/R
The range of masses over which the balloon may be safely operated must be established and at least consists of:
(a) maximum mass
The maximum mass is the highest mass at which compliance with each applicable requirement of CS-31GB is shown. The maximum mass must be established so that it is not more than the least of:
(1) the maximum mass selected for the product;
(2) the design maximum mass, which is the highest mass at which each structural loading condition is shown; or
(3) the maximum mass at which compliance with each applicable flight requirement is shown.
(b) minimum mass
The minimum mass is the lowest mass at which compliance with each applicable flight requirement is shown.
Mass limitation information related to safe operation of the balloon must be included in the Flight Manual. (See CS 31GB.81(b)(2))
ED Decision 2011/012/R
The maximum mass corresponds to the maximum buoyancy. The lift-producing medium is not part of the maximum mass.
ED Decision 2011/012/R
Minimum mass. The determination of the minimum mass should take into consideration that the controllability of the balloon might be affected by a low internal pressure at low mass.
At least the following should be demonstrated:
In landing configuration with minimum crew, untaut condition and already disposed minimum ballast, all controls (e.g. parachute, valve, rip panel, control lines, etc.) should have a positive performance and function easily and smoothly.
Note: An untaut condition is a flight with a ‘slack’ envelope and open appendix.
ED Decision 2011/012/R
The empty mass must be determined by weighing the balloon with installed equipment but without lifting gas.
ED Decision 2011/012/R
The equipment and configuration that are included in the empty mass need to be specified. Refer also to AMC 31GB.81(b)(2).
ED Decision 2011/012/R
The balloon at maximum mass must be capable of climbing at least 90 metres in the first minute from a start in equilibrium at ground level.
AMC 31GB.17 Performance: climb
ED Decision 2011/012/R
The climb performance should be demonstrated by a test. The fully inflated balloon to maximum pressure appropriate to the conditions of the test should start from equilibrium at ground level. The climb performance should be met without excessive jettisoning of ballast.
ED Decision 2011/012/R
The balloon must be safely controllable and manoeuvrable without requiring exceptional piloting skill. Associated operational limitations must be established and included in the Flight Manual. (See CS 31GB.81(b)(2)).