Figure 1-3 Tail Design

CHAPTER ONE

T-34C OUT-OF-CONTROL FLIGHT

recover quicker than from an erect spin because of greater rudder effectiveness and undisturbed

airflow over the vertical fin and rudder. Conversely, in a T-tail design, the vertical stabilizer and

rudder are more effective in an erect spin (Figure 1-3).

Figure 1-3 Tail Design

On the T-34C, a dorsal fin is added to provide more vertical tail area for directional stability

during large sideslip angles. Ventral fins and strakes on the tail are included to improve

directional stability and enhance spin characteristics and recovery. They aid in damping

oscillations in pitch, surges in rotation, and help to prevent the tail from going to excessively

high vertical angles (Figure 1-4).

Figure 1-4 Dorsal and Ventral Fins

INTRODUCTIONS AND SPINS 1-3