Vintage Aviation News

DECEMBER 15, 2024

The X-4 had no horizontal stabilizer in order to avoid interaction of shockwaves between the wings but had a vertical stabilizer and rudder. For better maintenance access, the small tail of the aircraft could be removed to work on or remove the engines. Today, both X-4s remain in existence.

Stability 52

Stability Horizontal Stabilizer Aileron Rudder 52

Plane and Pilot

DECEMBER 16, 2024

Planespotters note the F2’s separate ailerons and flaps, conventional tail. But you can see the change to separate ailerons and flaps is just one part of preparing the F2 to grow into a four-place airplanebuying aerodynamic benefits now to spend later on a heavier, more powerful model. Out back, theres an entirely new tail.

Airplanes 98

Airplanes Rudder Aileron Crosswind 98

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

The wing’s dead-smooth surface plus the tight-fitting aileron and flap brackets plus aileron gap seals give the build a professional factory look (left). Just recognizable in the background is a horizontal stabilizer and one-piece elevator. The old Grummans are, sadly, near extinction in workable form today.

Airplanes 79

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 79