AF 447 Thread No. 9

[rgbrock1]

I think this part of BEA's final report could explain why both PNF and PF did not recognize approach to stall nor the stall itself, no?

"However, positive longitudinal static stability on an aeroplane can be useful since it allows the pilot to have a sensory return (via the position of the stick) on the situation of his aeroplane in terms of speed in relation to its point of equilibrium (trim) at
constant thrust. Specifically, the approach to stall on a classic aeroplane is always associated with a more or less pronounced nose-up input. This is not the case on the A330 in alternate law. The specific consequence is that in this control law the
aeroplane, placed in a configuration where the thrust is not sufficient to maintain speed on the flight path, would end up by stalling without any inputs on the sidestick.
It appears that this absence of positive static stability could have contributed to the PF not identifying the approach to stall."

Gums:

Thank you for the explanation. The only 'buzz' I ever experienced in an aircraft was on a C-130 as the rear ramp was lowered so we airborne grunts could prepare ourselves for jumping out of it!!!