Flight test engineers deal with a wide range of aircraft types. Their task is to determine if the aircraft are operationally sound. They begin a project by determining the performance variables they wish to evaluate. They decide what kind of data is needed and then schedule flying tests to guarantee they can collect relevant data. 

• Aircraft knowledge – flight test engineers must have a solid grasp of the aircraft on which they are working. They must understand how the aeroplane operates and what each component accomplishes. 
• Attention to detail – they must pay close attention to detail to verify that they have thoroughly tested all systems and accumulated enough data to draw useful conclusions. 
• Data analysis – examine enormous volumes of data and utilise it to develop their conclusions and suggestions, flight test engineers must have good analytical abilities. 
• Communication – they must also have excellent communication skills in order to successfully communicate their results. 
• Critical thinking – using logic to discover the advantages and disadvantages of various solutions, conclusions, or approaches to issues. They must be able to multitask because they are engaged in numerous elements of aircraft preparation and must meet deadlines.  
• Active learning – assessing the consequences of new knowledge for present and future problem-solving and decision-making.