Originally Posted by
Ftrooppilot
Most glider pilots have flown trainers that have the L/D ratio of a streamlined brick then eventually fly 34/1 (and above) glass slippers that keep you airborne hours. Each of these has a "different sight picture" (especially in the pattern)and you adjust accordingly.
The "pattern sight picture" does not change just because the airframe is heavier. Things just happen faster.
Consider the following: Two aircraft are exactly alike (aerodynamically), are flying side by side at the same altitude, both loose total power at the same time and start flying L/D Max. One aircraft is significantly heavier then the other. Which one will glide the longest distance ?
You would be amazed how many pilots get it wrong.
Depends on the wind.
T-38 L/D if I remember was 230+fuel
First T-38 Flameout no fuel glide at 230 into a 230 kt wind. Dist traveled=0
Second T-38 Flameout with 1,000# into a 230 kt wind. Dist traveled>0
