Theories Of Lift, Cont'd

摘要

The actual velocity over the top of an airfoil is much faster than predicted...." For those who have not seen this with their own eyes, watch Dr. Alexander Lippisch and his smoke-particle wind-tunnel in 'The Secrets of Flight," available on YouTube. Fascinating! Thanks for the article ("Theories Of Lift," April 2020). It takes us a step beyond the stereotypes delivered during ground school. My impression is that the need for defensive flying is actually growing. I wonder if this is the result of poor training or hubris on the part of experienced pilots. I say this based on what I see as increased instances of bad behavior in aviation. At one non-towered airport nearby, a pilot called a straight-in approach immediately after I had announced a left downwind to the same runway. As I approached the point where I would normally turn base, I queried the other pilot about his position. He was within a mile, so I informed him he was within sight and I would extend my downwind and follow him in. He acknowledged the info and thanked me. He then proceeded to land short and slowly taxi the length of the runway, passing three taxi-ways (and a crossing runway) and paused at the last taxiway before exiting the 3503-foot-long runway. This was not a student pilot. The aircraft was a light sport belonging to the local flight school and piloted by an experienced pilot. We were in a 300-hp retractable.