Originally Posted by
JohnDixson
One day I was flying with an Oberst, who had survived the war having flown the JU-87 Stuka. Pretty strong man, with large shoulders etc. Because of where we were at the time, I decided to have him experience the roll maneuver first. Slight descent, nose down, about 70%Q, to about 160-170. Pull up tp 10-15 degrees nose up ( anything was fine ) hold that pitch attitude and when the speed bled off to 140 or lower ( again anything was fine ) put the cyclic on the right stop and load it until the world became right side up again and center it.
Well this pilot was doing fine, except that as we got to the 180 degree attitude, something clicked in his mind and he started a split S, i.e., he centered the cyclic and started it rearward. Would have been OK except we were at 6-700 ft and at that altitude, had not nearly enough space to do the pullout in the vertical plane. It took both of my hands on the cyclic to overpower my guest, and then it was close, as he stayed on his purpose.
Immediately brings to mind Dr. Strangelove's involuntary salute.
