German Air Force

Take-off under towing

German transport gliders DFS 230s taking-off towed by Dornier Do 17s, location unknown, perhaps Germany. The reciprocal position glider/towing plane of the sky train on the right of the photo on take-off is correct. The glider “detach” prior of the plane maintaining the alignment with-it forestalling the “cable effect” with the pedals (rudder) and eventually with the stick for the ailerons (the gliders has an adverse yaw very formidable). After few seconds also the plane “detach” with, for few seconds, a highest-position respect to glider, as showed by the photo (the towing under-wake isn’t dangerous). Afterwards the glider’s pilot acting the stick (elevator) bring the aircraft on an slightly highest-altitude, always maintaining the alignment with the towing plane. All in few seconds and an altitude maximum 15-20 meters from the ground. The DFS 230 on the left of the picture has already reached the towing’s altitude, but his position is incorrect: in effect isn’t properly aligned with the towing plane and his pilot, to “coming back”, will must acting vigorously the rudder with the left pedal maintaining the wing leveled with the ailerons (stick). Victor Sierra