Control reversal: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 06:01, 4 March 2004

Revision as of 18:22, 14 April 2004

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There are several causes for this problem, pilot error, effects of high speed flight, incorrectly connected controls, and various coupling forces on the aircraft.

Pilot error is the most common cause of control reversal. In unusual attitudes it is not uncommon for the pilot to become disoriented and start feeding in incorrect control movements in order to regain level flight. This is particularilyparticularly common when using helmenthelmet mounted display systems, which introduce graphics that remain steady in the pilot's view, notably when using a particular form of attitude display known as an ''inside-out'' display.

Incorrectly connected controls is another common cause of this problem. It is a recurring problem after maintenance on aircraft, notably homebuilt designs that are being flown for the first time after some minor work. However it is not entirely uncommon on commercial aircraft, and has been the cause of several near-accidents.