Lateral and Directional Stability and Control

Abstract

While the theoretical basis of lateral and directional stability and control is highly mathematical and often taught in universities, the practical application is less so. This chapter, like the previous one, again focuses on the “apparent” lateral and directional stability, i.e. on what the pilot sees and feels. This is the methodology used in most flight test schools and companies when assessing lateral and directional stability from an airworthiness perspective. Thus, an understanding of the methodology is vital for anyone intending to work in the field.

…an extra 360° because it seemed like a good idea at the time. I can still remember the excitement in the eyes of the company photographer when he came up to me afterwards…. Most of all I can remember raising the nose at the end of the roll and how wide the runway looked at that point.

John Farley, A view from the hover.