TC
I'm responsible for briefing T/R malfunctions on one of the ab-initio squadrons at DHFS. This brief is given prior to going solo and at the first circuits phase.
I split the subject into 2x 2-hour briefs as there's so much to cover!
One brief deals with Yaw Control malfunctions (T/R control failure), the other covers uncommanded yaw incl. T/R Drive Failure.
I have found that the best way to foster a depth of understanding wrt to 'uncommanded yaw' is to ellicit the possible causes. These include, T/R Drive failure, LTE, Hydraulic Malfunction (we teach on AS350 with Hyd assisted T/R), wrong pedal input and weathercocking. By breaking down each scenario into it's components and likely symptoms and recovery actions the students seem to lap it up. A generous smattering of helicopter porn (relevant accident videos) and accident reports spice things up a bit. It's one of the few briefs that I give where theres a 'buzz' in the canteen during the coffee break.
There have been numerous training accidents worldwide (IIRC incl 2 at DHFS) as a consequence of poorly handled yaw. Rarely was there anything wrong with the helicopter. Understanding, recognition and correct diagnosis are the key to a successful outcome.
JJ
Last edited by jellycopter; 10th Mar 2013 at 17:37.