Old 08-08-2009, 05:09 PM
  #4  
BeenThere
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Joined APC: Dec 2005
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Assuming you mean on landing, the answer is no. Some aircraft like DC-8 and B747 have roll limits to protect outboard engines which necessitate landing in a crab. My preferred technique is to hold the crab down to the last foot or so, then kick it out just as the wheels touch--paying particular attention to getting the aircraft on the ground and tracking straight down the runway before it starts drifting. Others actually land in the crab, but as spoilers and reverse don't always operate symetrically you could find yourself fighting the aircraft all the way down the runway, especially if it's slick. Plus, that's awfully hard on the landing gear. You won't need asymetrical thrust to help with any crosswind up to the demonstrated limit, and you'd also need to think about a go-around with half your power alreadly spooled up and the other half a little behind. Now that could get exciting!

As for using it on takeoff, never. That's what rudders and ailerons are for.
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