STOL Capabilities of VTOL Aircraft – Some Operating Parameters

Data reported here show that the military VTOL aircraft is limited to short ranges and small loads, and hence it is important to consider its overloaded performance. General curves show effects of power loading and wing lift on takeoff performance. It is suggested that a variable sweep wing will overcome conflicting requirements. The variation of interference effects with engine position and forward speed is shown. The pilot techniques used during a short take-off and some of the engineering work carried out on variable sweep wings are illustrated.