T-38A CATEGORY II STABILITY AND CONTROL TESTS
Abstract
The T-38 aircraft is an excellent trainer for pilot transition into high performance jet aircraft including present Century Series fighter aircraft. Its simplicity is conducive to transition; its performance and handling characteristics allow Century Series simulation and development of correct pilot techniques. The stability and control characteristics of the aircraft are satisfactory throughout the flight envelope. The longitudinal control response is sensitive at high speeds and/or Mach numbers and slow at airspeeds below 220 knots IAS, but it is the best balance available from the simple nonq-biased flight control system. The aircraft is safe to fly with or without stability augmentation. The damper systems provide adequate damping at all airspeeds and slightly excessive damping longitudinally at low airspeeds. All inflight directional, lateral-directional, and lateral characteristics are satisfactory. The low nose wheel steering response near neutral requires excessive rudder pedal movements while taxiing and occasionally causes a low frequency divergence in directional oscillations on takeoff due to over-control.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0263411
Entities
People
- Norris J. Hanks
- William A. Lusby Jr.
Organizations
- Air Force Test Center