I could also really use help properly describing what it would look like from the ground if you observed the prototype as it's being test-flown. So for instance, in the first test flight, the problem will probably mainly be the supersonic speed of the propellers. So would you be able to see the way it would cause turbulence?
Does it make sense for Sam to remain on the ground while a pilot tests the airplane? Sam isn't supposed to be a pilot, he's an engineer. But maybe he should be the one flying the tests so he can experience the problems firsthand? But then, what if the plane really failed and he was killed? How did they do it in rl?
Also, does it make sense for the first test flight to only reveal the problem with the propellers? Or would it also show the issue with wing twist? Would it get that far if the propellers are causing all that turbulence?