Spectators Balcony (Spotters Corner)If you're not a professional pilot but want to discuss issues about the job, this is the best place to loiter. You won't be moved on by 'security' and there'll be plenty of experts to answer any questions.
The aircraft was piloted to the crash location before the pilot ejected, and the trijet then descended in a level attitude - guided remotely by a chase aircraft - before impacting hard and breaking up.
I find it difficult to believe that they were able to install ejection seats. Jumped out the back door, I would believe.
-A hard landing can overload the structure?
-Crashing is bad for Your health?
-An 1960s airliner is rather more solid than a paper aircraft?
-A firework specialist is required for a Hollywood-style fireball?
Clear demonstration of 1) why to flare before touchdown 2) landing nose-gear first can cause more than just a wrinkle in the skin 3) doing the above on a soft surface will cause high forces and deceleration rates 4) TV producers may not be aware of any of the above .. or were seeking the third ...
I agree, what a waste, and I don't look forward to the shows that will use it.
The idea was to research a survivable crash. Here is a link to a PPRuNe discussion about the project way back in 2009 when after two years planning a December 2009 shoot was scheduled... originally a widebody Tri-Star L1011 was planned but apparently endless discussions between authorities + greenies + lawyers bled the budget.
Having learnt from this exercise lets hope there is plenty of scope for a crash of a wide bodied aircraft with engines on its wings, shot in a way suitable for an Imax presentation
Last edited by mickjoebill; 30th Apr 2012 at 15:02.
I hope they got some good data out of that rather expensive experiment. Certainly looked interesting/fun to participate in. Wonder if they will release some better footage?
I find it difficult to believe that they were able to install ejection seats. Jumped out the back door, I would believe.
I'm still trying to figure out where they put the ejection seat, so the pilot could "eject", as well. The pilot did not use the aft airstairs, as they were up. I guess he could have gone out of one of the main cabin doors. Using the forward cabin door he's have to have missed the wing and the aft cabin, the engine.
As for the cost of the airframe, old worn out 727s are dirt cheap to buy, as MarkerInbound noted.
Lifelong fan of the TriJets, probably from Eastern and Delta being the primary means of travel for me years ago. Living near TPA is quieter without the L1011s and 727s screaming nearby but I miss their beauty in flight.
This crash was no way to kill a proud old gal.
As an RC pilot, I would have been more creative and shown some moves before driving her in. At least let her show her stuff one last time...
What the bloody hell was the point? I'd rather channel 4 burnt a bunch of chavs alive. That I'd support. A mindless waste of time, probably funded by endless PPI claims adverts that have driven me to the brink of.........another glass of vino.
