Analysis of the Approach, Flare and Landing Characteristics of the X-24A Lifting Body
Abstract
The approach and flare were flown with clean configurations (landing gear up), having maximum lift-to-drag ratios (L/D)'s between 2.95 and 4.30. The landing configuraton (gear down) had a maximum L/D of 2.65. The landing approach pattern was a 180-degree, unpowered, left-hand, circling approach followed by a short wings-level, high energy final approach at airspeeds ranging from 267 to 318 KCAS, terminating with a flare to near level flight near the ground, and a deceleration to landing. The landing gear was extended near completion of flare in close proximity to the ground. The landings were at airspeeds between 168 and 205 KCAS at sink rates of less than 5 feet per second and within 2,000 feet of the intended landing point. An effective speed brake function was generated on the X-24A by using the flap bias feature. This was essential to the accomplishment of accurate landings. Visibility and handling qualities of the X- 24A in the final approach and landing configuration were excellent; however, lateral upsets in turbulence were disconcerting, especially near the ground.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- AD0901957
Entities
People
- David F. Richardson
Organizations
- Air Force Test Center