Stability and Control characteristics of the Early Mark Spitfires

[41Sqn_Banks]

Originally Posted by robtek

Probably because a controled dive with a defined level out altitude is different from a spin with a uncontroled loss of altitude and therefore the possible increased urgency to level out before hitting the ground.

Indeed, spinning is one of the most dangerous man oeuvres. Combined with the fact that there is little to no benefit from a deliberate spin it's the simplest solution to prohibit it.

Btw I don't get why topic has so many pages. Just read the Pilot's Notes, it's all there:

- exceptional/remarkable light elevator response even at high speed, which is a good thing and a bad thing (risk of high speed stall and blackout/break up the aircraft if pilot is not carefully)
- instability in turns (elevator becomes lighter in turn)
- stall warning/buffeting/buzz (best turn rate is achieved slightly before buffeting)

Now let's look at the current FM and find out if this is represented.