MSC.FlightLoads and Dynamics is based on MSC.Nastran and MSC.Patran. The MSC.Nastran code must include the Aero I option. If supersonic analyses are of interest, it is also necessary to have Aero II. The MSC.Patran code must include the MSC.Nastran Preference.

It is assumed that the MSC FlightLoads user has some experience with both the underlying software and the analysis procedures involved in the system. It is also expected that the user has basic familiarity with flight loads concepts such as rigid and elastic loads, stability derivatives, control surfaces, maneuvers and other similar concepts. Some familiarity with static aeroelasticity in MSC.Nastran (SOL 144) and flutter in MSC Nastran (SOL 145) is beneficial.

One of the components of an aeroelastic model in MSC.FlightLoads and Dynamics is the structural model. In this manual, these structural models are presumed to exist. They can enter the MSC.FlightLoads and Dynamics system by import or by direct creation in MSC.FlightLoads and Dynamics (MSC.Patran) using the structures preference. This manual does not cover any structural modeling issues. Please refer to the MSC.Nastran Preference of MSC.Patran for information on structural modeling.