Harrier Jump Jet XAV 4133-392
While the Harrier is one of the most flexible aircraft ever made, the level of understanding and skill needed to pilot it is considerable. The Harrier is capable of both forward flight (where it behaves in the manner of a typical fixed-wing aircraft above its stall speed), and VTOL and STOL maneuvers (where the traditional lift and control surfaces are useless). This requires skills and understanding more usually associated with helicopters. Most services demand great aptitude and extensive training for Harrier pilots, as well as experience of piloting both types of aircraft. Many recruit trainee pilots from the most experienced and skilled helicopter pilots in their organisations. The Harrier has two control elements that a fixed-wing aircraft does not usually have. These are the thrust vector and reaction control system. The thrust vector refers to the slant of the four engine nozzles and can be set between zero degrees (horizontal, pointing directly back) and 98 degrees (pointing down and slightly forwards). The 90 degree place is generally used for VTOL maneuvering. Thrust vector is adjusted by a control next to the thrust lever. The reaction control is achieved by manipulating the control stick and is similar in action to the cyclic control of a helicopter. While irrelevant during forward flight mode, these controls are essential during VTOL and STOL, and are used together during these maneuvers. Wind direction and the point of reference of the aircraft to this is also crucial during VTOL maneuvers (in this sense operation is limited compared with a helicopter, which can take off and land in side winds). The Harrier's landing gear configuration also complicates normal landing; it is necessary to ensure that the wing-mounted stabiliser struts contact the runway simultaneously; bounce or tilt to one side can result if this is not achieved. The procedure for VTO involves parking the aircraft facing into the wind. The aircraft is brought to a halt, throttle to idle
Size: 5380px × 3573px
Location: RAF Lossiemouth, Moray. Grampian United Kingdom.
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
Keywords: aeroplane, airborne, aircraft, aviation, bomber, engine, fighter, flight, flying, hover, landing, military, nozzles, thrust, twin, vector, vertical
