AH-1G Lateral Flight Performance Test,
Abstract
The lateral flight performance of the tractor-tail-rotor-configured AH-1G helicopter was evaluated at gross weights of 8500 and 9500 pounds. The AH-1G is capable of 0.53g and 0.38g accelerations in right and left lateral flight, respectively, at 8500 pounds. At a 9500-pound gross weight, acceleration was 0.23g to the right and 0.20g to the left. Aircraft handling qualitites and time required to attain maximum lateral velocity are dependent upon rate and type of control application. A step-type lateral control input permitted rapid attainment of accelerating attitude but produced yaw oscillations which resulted in loss of directional control and caused high pilot workload in stabilizing power and aircraft attitude. Ramp inputs delayed establishment of the accelerating attitude. A modified pulse input induced negligible roll and yaw oscillation and produced rapid establishment of the desired roll attitude. Direction-of-flight reversals induced large power transients that frequently exceeded the transmission torque limits. Precise heading and pitch attitude could not be maintained during the reversals. Airspeed in lateral flight could not be determined without special airspeed measuring devices. The sideward airspeed limit was exceeded frequently in left lateral flight with no warning or cue to the pilot that the limit had been reached.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 1972
- Accession Number
- ADA072868
Entities
People
- Albert L. Winn
- James S. Kishi
- Leslie J. Hepler