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Lateral Stability

Fig. 12.A. Diagram of the Tractor Biplane

The first machine of the ordinary biplane type that proved inherently stable was the R. E.-1 designed in England by Edward Busk. This machine was flown from Farnborough to Salisbury Plain, and during this flight the only control touched was the vertical rudder used in steering. Since then, all English machines have been made at least partially stable, the degree depending upon the service for which it was intended. It has been found that in fighting, a very controllable machine is necessary, hence stability must be sacrificed, or the control surfaces must be made sufficiently powerful to overcome the stable tendency of the machine. War machines are made to be just comfortably stable over the range of ordinary flight speeds, and with controls powerful enough so that the inherent stability can be overcome when maneuvering in battle. The present war machine always contains an element of danger for the unskilled pilot.

Dihedral Angle