Hi HN39,
Re the flap settings. Regardless of briefings and configuration commands from PF to PNF, the DFDR shows that the fly-past was flown at Flaps/Config 3.
BEA Rapport Finale, Annexe VII, Tome 2
Published DFDR data start at 1244Z, Time mark 240.0 sec (this may be 240 secs from selection of TOGA at the start of T/O).
At 240.0 sec, Slats18/Flaps10 (= "Flaps 1+F", maintained from T/O).
At 263.0 sec, Slats22/Flaps15 (= "Flaps 2").
At 279.0 sec, Slats22/Flaps20 (= "Flaps 3").
At impact (334.0 or 335.0), Slats22/Flaps20 ("Flaps 3").
Dozy,
Re possible effect of L/G on alpha-max: again, I think the BEA would have done their homework. L/G increses drag, which offsets thrust, but I don't think the aerodynamics are changed significantly. For example, alpha-floor remains the same at 15.0 deg in that config, according to my contemporary FCOM, which unfortunately gives no equivalent figures for alpha-max. Placarded VLS (on the ASI) does not change, IIRC, with gear position, whereas it does with speedbrake extension.
PS
HN 39, I now see your exchanges with Dozy refer to the video of the Gordon Corps demo flight...
Last edited by Chris Scott; 3rd Jan 2014 at 00:48.
Reason: PS added.