PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Thrust to flare?
View Single Post
Old 20th November 2012 | 07:09
  #44 (permalink)  
VinRouge
 
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 0
Likes: 0
From: Germany
This is how the C-17 "Flares". However, there is a shedload of flight control law mechanics also working in the background, in particular alpha hold functions and using the trim switch to control IAS (so I am told).


If you had a HUD with a flight path vector displayed, you would see the mechanics of it.

I used this technique on the herc J, it provides extra lift and an upward motion of your flight path vector especially as you approach ground effect (which is also visible through a hud). We used it as an untought technique on some of the longer strips in afghanistan to prevent the aircraft slamming in on what would otherwise be a needlessly agressive touchdown (the manual is written for short field performance). The effect is instantaneous and does not result in a speed increase, its done literally as you enter ground effect and thus the extra thrust does not have time to accelerate the aircraft.

Whether it would work on an aircraft without barn door type flaps I dont know (not sure if it is blown lift or due to the thrust affecting circulation).

Biggest problem with it is the gentle touchdowns it generates can delay spoiler deployment and potentially invalidate your TOLD calcs. Its also almost impossible to judge touchdown point and if you overdo it, you can end up climbing!

Last edited by VinRouge; 20th November 2012 at 07:31.
VinRouge is offline  
Reply