Would there be any limitations ( aside from speed ) of opening the ramp in flight ?
As I understand there could be stability issues with opening the ramp in flight. Large slab lowering into the airflow etc. That may well have been covered in any airworthiness tests, however, opening the top half of the ramp would not have the same issues, but make sure everything is secure in the cabin first!
As for 725 Driver.....are you still trying to convince them they should have bought the Cougar?????? If you are looking for a bite, then you can't beat a top heavy aircraft from the 1970s that has blades going the wrong way!
How many countries have used a marinised Puma or derivatives for ASW over the last 40 years????
it's amazing how windows are obstructed by the sponsons !!
the field of view is really tight
Does the self loading cargo need a field of view in a military helicopter? After all this is an ASW/Maritime aircraft, the view is always water!
The pilots of the CH124 never get to see the bear trap and always get in the trap. (well a few occasionally miss - but that is sport - "In the Trap, Trapped! Down Tail Probe. Centre Lock, Centre Rail!
).
Pasptoo