German Air Force

Under towing

Bundesarchiv

Two Luftwaffe’s transport glider DFS 230s towed by Ju 87Rs for a mission somewhere in Italy, Summer 1943. This photo is very interesting because the sky train in background show the reciprocal correct position of the glider and the towing plane: glider slightly above the towing plane (maximum 1,5 or 2 meters) for avoid the entry in the plane’s wake while the asset is slightly nose down (a nose up asset with crossing of the height respect the towing plane is very, very, very dangerous). Height and asset are respected by the glider pilot with visual control and with continuous action over the trim tab for “lighten” the flight controls. Note also the asset slightly nose up of Ju 87 towing plane notably under stress. In turn the towing’s pilot must respect a constant speed according the glider’s flight manual, avoid sharp manoeuvers and change of asset while the turn must steady avoiding sudden steps. The towing is a tricky phase of the glider’s flight requiring many attention by the pilots (glider pilot and towing pilot) and, if possible, a well crew-coordination. (today, the radio is a great aid). Obviously, the weather conditions (as strong wind abeam, severe turbulence like this of a wave flight) making many difficult. In any event, in the case of hard difficult, the rule is one: release! (Bundesarchiv Bild 1011-567-1123-35A Foto: Stocker) Victor Sierra