opposing knife edge pass

Airshow fan · Post by **Airshow fan** » Sat May 27, 2006 11:38 am

I seen the Blue Angels in April and #7 said " Watch closey, and see the the two solo pilots bring the aircraft over to a 90 degree and push forward on the stick. "

What does pushing on the stick help? They are off-set (not going right head to head) Does the Virtual or real Thunderbirds have to push forward on the stick?

Airshow fan

Tomcatboy48237 · Post by **Tomcatboy48237** » Sat May 27, 2006 11:58 am

Without forward stick they would begin to turn, since the lift from the wings is always trying to push the aircrafts nose up. If the aircraft is banked 90 degrees, this makes the aircraft begin to turn in the direction of the bank.

Airshow fan · Post by **Airshow fan** » Sat May 27, 2006 12:13 pm

OK great no wonder I could'nt do a knife edge! (even with the tail)

Thanks!

Airshow fan

STRIKER · Post by **STRIKER** » Sat May 27, 2006 1:26 pm

Well said Tomcatboy48237,

The Knife Edge pass takes the attention of all three control inputs including throttle. It demands probably the second greatest airspeed for the show (first one being the Sneak Pass of course). Remember, once you get established in the 090 degree wing low position you will need to simaltaneously push alittle forward stick (which is in essence now your yaw axis) and smoothly apply right rudder to remain level (which is about 2-4 degrees nose high to get your FPV on level). Hope that works for you.

Airshow fan · Post by **Airshow fan** » Sat May 27, 2006 1:36 pm

I'll try that Thanks!

AF