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Old 11-27-2007, 05:53 PM
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pmw
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Default RE: Aileron differential

SCW,

Of course you are correct. You would never guess that I'm a professional pilot with test pilot experience would you? That's what I get for trying to do this and listen to my employees in the background at the same time. What I meant to say is that reducing the deflection of the "down" aileron reduces the drag component on that wing, thus solving the adverse yaw condition. Increasing the "up" aileron accomplishes the same thing by adding drag to that wing, but has much less effect. Especially at slow speed and high angles of attack.

In fact the first thing we're taught in recovering a plane from a wing low, stalled condition is to NOT use aileron. Use rudder. The reason is that the low wing will receive "down" aileron and the increase in drag on that wing can induce a spin.

Thanks for the catch. I'll try to do better next time!

Paul