Stall Recovery in a Centrifuge-Based Flight Simulator With an Extended Aerodynamic Model

Abstract

We investigated the performance of 12 airline pilots in recovering from an asymmetrical stall in a flight simulator featuring an extended aerodynamic model of a transport-category aircraft, and a centrifuge-based motion platform capable of generating enhanced buffet motion and g-cueing. All pilots had difficulties in applying the correct recovery template, as their initial response was to counter the wing drop rather than to unload the aircraft. Reproduction of actual g-loads led to significantly longer recoveries, more secondary stick-shaker events, lower maximum load factors, larger altitude loss, and higher speeds. It also resulted in higher workload. We conclude that the extended simulator envelope is useful for demonstrating stall characteristics of transport aircraft.