737: Reversible flight controls?
Hi PPruners,
I've had this question in the back of my head for a long time:
Does the 737 qualify as having reversible flight controls (assuming normal ops with hydraulics on)?
(And let's ignore the MAX's FBW spoilers for now)
While, unlike most other jet transport category aircraft, the 737 has direct links to the ailerons/elevators so with hydraulics off, it is quite clear that the 737 has a reversible flight control system (for those two axes). The rudder is controlled by PCUs and thus there is no movement of the rudder surface without hydraulics if the pedals are moved.
But what does it look like when hydraulics are on?
The elevator clearly has an artificial feel computer to simulate aerodynamic forces. What about the ailerons?
And... assuming the hydraulics are on and someone would step on the elevator (or aileron) flight control surface, would the control column move? If it would move, then probably that would be proof that the flight control system is indeed reversible. If it would however not move, then that would probably prove that the flight controls are indeed irreversible, as (aerodynamic) forces are not transmitted to the control wheel.
Any thoughts on this?
Many thanks!