Variable stability and control tests on the S.C.1 aircraft in jet-borne flight, with particular reference to desirable VTOL flying qualities

Abstract

The note describes a series of tests made on the S.C.1 variable stability VTOL aircraft in hovering and low speed flight, with various amounts of autostabilization. The measurements made cover control power, damping, trim, engine response and ground effect. Pilot opinions of the flying qualities of the aircraft in different conditions are correlated with its measured characteristics, including the time taken to perform manoeuvres. Conclusions are drawn about desirable flying qualities for VTOL aircraft, and are compared with those obtained from other similar flight tests.