Originally Posted by Chris Scott
In view of the possibility that AF447 encountered sudden, severe turbulence, perhaps we should be adding another scenario to the list of possible causes of LOC and Control-Law degradation. Could it be compatible with the analysis of ACARS messages? I think it might be.
Except maybe for the message related to the
pitot tubes which, in my opinion, is absolutely central in the AF447 ending.
But unreliable airspeed + turbulence + no natural horizon + AP disconnect + alternate law ... could be the perfect recipe for overcontrol.
We know how easy it is to over control especially with the sidestick.
The indicated airspeed may be little, but the real true airspeed would not cope well with anything more than tiny sidestick solicitations ...
I remember being disturbed by one copilot, who moved a pedal significantly when stretching a leg that had "gone to sleep".
Reminds me how smart it can be to put some distance with the rudder pedals before taking a nap. Never know if you gonna play it like Ronaldo in your half sleep ...