NTPS Mission Statement


Our primary objective at NTPS is to educate and train to the highest-level Test Pilots and Flight Test Engineers. Upon successful completion of the program they, will be capable of participating immediately in either a military or civilian developmental, certification or acceptance flight test program.  NTPS is committed to the fundamental values of honesty, integrity, respect for others, and the pursuit of truth and excellence.

To address the high level of technical and academic requirements of this unique field of applied aeronautics, NTPS has defined academic and professional goals in the area of Flight Test Engineering at the graduate level. These include:

  • The development of insight in, and understanding of, the fundamental ideas and methods of applied mathematics, physical science, and engineering
  • The scientific application of this knowledge to solution of real-world problems
  • The advancement of aeronautical science
  • The development of skills in effective management, reporting and communication
  • An enhanced awareness of the scope and responsibility of the Flight Test Professional's role in aircraft development and design, and his or her ultimate contribution to the airworthiness and mission capability of the air vehicle under development and test. 

Educational Objectives


  • Make students aware of the scope and responsibility of the test pilot or flight test engineer in aircraft development and design and his/her ultimate contribution to the airworthiness and mission capability of the air vehicle.
  • Students shall have the technical ability and the management and communications skills required to perform the tasks of a test pilot and/or flight test engineer in a civilian or military flight test program immediately after graduation.
  • Students shall be capable of managing a military and/or civilian flight test project within 3 years after graduation.
  • Advance the flight test and evaluation discipline through reports, professional papers, journal articles, and/or symposia presentations.
  • Students are committed to unbiased truth and excellence.