Two step pedals in RAF fighters

Ad: This forum contains affiliate links to products on Amazon and eBay. More information in Terms and rules

fastmongrel

1st Sergeant
4,527
3,623
May 28, 2009
Lancashire
When did the RAF start equipping its Spitfires and Hurricanes with two step pedals to help counteract Blacking out during tight turns. I think they were standard from the factory by early 1941 but were they retro fitted to service fighters earlier.
 
I always thought this is to adapt for different seat position during flight and start/landing .
Cheers
 
12-1-41 (that's January 12,) as modification 269 on the Spitfire; probably about the same time (modification 190) on the Hurricane.
A Spitfire modification leaflet was issued, enabling units to do the work themselves (15 man-hours,) but not until March 1941.

The change was made when trials against a Me109 found that the pilot could withstand tighter turns, without blacking out, which was put down to his straight-out leg position.
Bader had a similar advantage, since he had no legs for the blood to drain into.
 
Last edited:

Users who are viewing this thread

Back