Look Closely
 

Is this aircraft's reversers deployed before weight on wheels? Or is it just an optical illusion. I truly can't tell, but to me it looks like both reversers are deployed while still in flight. Someone emailed this link to me to see if I could figure it out, but I can't tell.

http://www.airliners.net/photo/Sudan...ext_id=1370121

It's airborne. About 6ft. At this point, I'm sure they're just speed brakes. There's no lift-dump on the wings yet, so I'm sure it could fly OK with the TR's on 2 of 4 deployed as long as they're in idle reverse.

Two of the four are, but the a/c is Russian..............nuff said. :rolleyes:

Could be like the C17 where the reversers can be deployed at idle inflight to act as speed brakes.

The DC-8 uses Engine 2/3 TRs as speedbrakes as well.

So does the lockheed Jetstar......pilots typically reverse the 2 inboard engines during a decent to make it nice and steep...cool flying airplane

I wonder if that screws up their pitch control/gives them any buffet on the tail in flight.

Be careful....

I have been on many Russian airplanes. They know how to build airplanes.

Anyway, the DC-8 is also certified for inflight reverser usage.

I like how the Tu154 usually survives a gear-up landing. Jack it up, extend the (often perfectly good) gear, and taxi off...

I am surprised you even need to put it back on the wheels. That tank should just be able to throttle up and taxi in on its belly!! :D

One of the most beautiful planes ever made IMHO!

Photos: Tupolev Tu-154M Aircraft Pictures | Airliners.net