John C
Well Known Member
About this time of year, the articles start appearing about losing airplanes in the pattern at OSH. Most recommend practicing slow flight. I could not agree more, but practice with the airplane loaded as you would arrive at OSH.
Practice your slow flight at GWT and AFT CG if that is the way you are going to be loaded. The last time I was at GWT and AFT CG was during my test period several years ago and my loaded ?9A is a different flying airplane from the way I normally fly.
We often fly lightly loaded and with the CG in a mid-range or forward. We get comfortable with the stick forces, trim changes and power settings. When arriving at OSH you may be near GWT and more importantly near the AFT CG. Your stall speed is going to be greater, for example 8 mph, and the stick forces are distinctly lighter. My 1.3 Vs jumps from about 70 to 80 mph. The speed will decay much faster than normal, it takes less pull on the stick to get you a lot closer to stall AOA - then add the rest...... tighter turn, distractions, slowing for the guy in front, no stall warning.....
Best way to practice? Perhaps just the way you are loaded on your way to OSH. Stop for fuel; make a couple of landings just after you refuel, somewhere other than OSH. No need to go crazy to scare the pax but there is also no need to rediscover your GWT, AFT CG handling qualities when you hit the OSH pattern. Determine your minimum speed and maximum bank angle for your condition and do not waiver.
Regards, John.
Practice your slow flight at GWT and AFT CG if that is the way you are going to be loaded. The last time I was at GWT and AFT CG was during my test period several years ago and my loaded ?9A is a different flying airplane from the way I normally fly.
We often fly lightly loaded and with the CG in a mid-range or forward. We get comfortable with the stick forces, trim changes and power settings. When arriving at OSH you may be near GWT and more importantly near the AFT CG. Your stall speed is going to be greater, for example 8 mph, and the stick forces are distinctly lighter. My 1.3 Vs jumps from about 70 to 80 mph. The speed will decay much faster than normal, it takes less pull on the stick to get you a lot closer to stall AOA - then add the rest...... tighter turn, distractions, slowing for the guy in front, no stall warning.....
Best way to practice? Perhaps just the way you are loaded on your way to OSH. Stop for fuel; make a couple of landings just after you refuel, somewhere other than OSH. No need to go crazy to scare the pax but there is also no need to rediscover your GWT, AFT CG handling qualities when you hit the OSH pattern. Determine your minimum speed and maximum bank angle for your condition and do not waiver.
Regards, John.