VFR Unusual Attitudes

CHAPTER TEN

T-34C CONTACT

Inter-cockpit communication between aircrew is imperative. Both individuals must rely on

the other not to apply high G forces without first giving prior warning. Historically within the

T-34C community, poor crew communication has been a major causal factor in G-LOC

episodes.

Be prepared physically.

Avoid flying if ill or extremely fatigued.

Maintain an adequate fluid intake and do not skip meals.

Stay in shape. The optimum fitness program for increasing G-tolerance is a

combination of moderate weight training and cardiovascular aerobic exercise

(running, walking, swimming, etc.) 2-3 times weekly. Avoid excessive long distance

running (more than 25 miles per week) or overly intense weight training. These will

typically result in lower blood pressure and heart rate which may decrease

G-tolerance.

A "G-warmup sequence" is recommended for any pilot who anticipates performing high

G maneuvers. This may be accomplished by performing the following procedures:

Transition to aerobatic cruise and complete the Aerobatic Checklist. Notify the other

crewmember that you are going to commence the G-warmup sequence.

Clear the area. Initiate three-second verbal countdown. On "1," apply the AGSM and

on "0," smoothly roll into a 60 AOB turn at 2 G's for 90 of heading change.

Maintain altitude with nose attitude. Continue to perform the AGSM until step 4 is

completed.

Clear the area. Using the one-third rule, reverse the turn for 90 of heading change at

60 AOB and 2 G's. Maintain altitude with nose attitude.

Clear the area. Using the one-third rule, reverse the turn for 90 of heading change at

90 AOB and 2.5 to 3.0 G's. Maintain altitude with nose attitude.

1010. VFR UNUSUAL ATTITUDES

Description. Refer to T-34C NATOPS Flight Manual Section IV for discussion of, and

procedures for, UNUSUAL ATTITUDE RECOVERY.

General. The diverse and demanding missions performed by military aircraft often require

maneuvers which involve unusual attitudes. An effective military pilot must therefore be trained

to quickly recognize and then safely recover from unusual attitudes. This must often be

accomplished while relying almost exclusively upon the interpretation of visual cues from

outside the cockpit. In this stage of training you will perform the procedures for recovery from

various unusual attitudes utilizing what is primarily a scan of visual references located outside

the cockpit.

10-6 INTRODUCTION TO AEROBATICS