Development of The Lockheed L-1011's Flying Stabilizer

Longitudinal control on the Lockheed L-1011 is provided by a flying stabilizer. This is the first time such an approach has been used on a United States commercial jet transport.

This paper presents the reasons for the choice of longitudinal control systems, and describes the mechanization of the control system with particular emphasis on how it meets Lockheed's safety standards and the Federal Airworthiness Requirements. The status of the ground and flight development tests is discussed.