What DO you know?
The `gripper` or `ground hugger` as the Trident 1C was affectionately known to us in ATC, was due to the fact that it only ever got airborne due to the curvature of the earth.
A friend of mine, a British Eagle BAC-11 skipper said that aslong as he was stabalised he would select reverse idle over Heston, landing on 28R (27R to the youngsters).
I understand that DC-8 were certified to select reverse at altitude to inccrease descent rates. (all models ?)
Dave
