Originally Posted by
EasternATC
If the F-16 wing can be configured symmetrically, and I don't know whether or not it can, then pure vertical flight would produce no aerodynamic force.
Perfect vertical flight (more accurately; perfect flight at zero lift AOA), in any aircraft, regardless of wing symmetry, will produce zero lifting force.
I still haven't quite figured out why all the little nit pick over vertical flight and lift. Anyways, if anyone here wants to learn about an airfoils zero lift AOA, then look up
Absolute AOA. It is what matters in this demonstration. Flying perfectly vertical can only be achieved if the pilot flies at precisely the absolute (zero lift) AOA. Which can be done at any flight attitude, look at the NASA zero G (zero lift) training aircraft for an example.
Not sure this reply was intended for me, but just in case: I never claimed that perfect vertical flight would or wouldn't produce lift. We already agree, flown perfectly, no lift is produced. However, to claim that the wings will no longer develop a lifting force and instead calling it is a horizontal (or some other pilot made up name) force. That is pure BS.
