I'm desparately trying to trying to learn the controls of the B -17 for the < Training Mission #2 Approach and Landing > so far I have inky syceeded in crashing.

Please give me some idea of how to set the trim controls.

When < Training Mission #2 Approach and Landing > starts the B17 is under control of the [AI]
using the keyboard:
1. I switch from [AI] control to [manual control ]
2 . immediately the B17 starts to descend , so I use the [ trim negative Elevator coarse] to maintain 1000 ft altitude

QUESTION_1
Must the B17 be flown using the [ Directional Instrument ] command ?
Exactly what Instruments should I scan ?

the Pilot's view through the Front window is so limited that the horizon is difficult too see the orientation of the B17.

Keeping the B17 flying using visual results in the B17 enters into an unrecoverable severe bank and crashes.

QUESTION_2
PLease spell out (in fine a detail as you have patience for)
how to accomplish [ manual control ] to Land the B17.

Thanks for your efforts! I will try anything to improve until I can Finally Land the B17 without mishaps.

martymarty

Best to forget about trim controls when trying to land martymarty. The trim is more useful for flying missions in BC or SC rather then the landing tutorial. Rather then keeping your head down in the instrument panel chasing the needles, hit the "H" key while in the pilots view (#3 key), this will bring up the pilot helper (looks like a cone) that will show you the way to the runway (this is also very useful when taxing). Just watch your airspeed and altitude that is displayed in the upper right hand of the screen. You can also use the "Shift+Y" key to padlock the nearest airfield. The view out of the office in B-17 2 is limited just as it was in real life. Just take your time and when lined up on the runway pick your point where you want to touch down, watch your airspeed (keep around 110-120 mph) and decent altitude. If you think your going to miss your touchdown point, pour on the coals and go around, much better to go around then force a landing as they usually end in a crash. Also think about using the "F2" key (external view) on approachs for awhile. While not the authentic think to do it can help you get a feel for your decent rate until your ready to try it from the internal view only. B-17 2 does model the B-17 Flying Fortress very well and as such pratice and more pratice is the rule.

Marty,
I PM to you several days ago a detailed landing procedure did you get it?
Vox

Vox,
Sorry, but I am really a newbie! When I checked all I could find was
< UBB Message
< This user is not accepting private messages.

I couldn't find any sign of how to receive a PM
=================================================
Your experience is really valuable to me. Please re-send PM to the open forum here.

The only reason I used a PM was because I thought that others would not be interested in my elementary questions.

By the way what is a < USB Message > ?

Thank you for answering my questions about < B17 Flying Fortress > !

martymarty

Marty,I was only trying out that mission a few hours ago!
It's been a long time since I played the game and I had forgotten most of the controls.

From the manual.....

Mission 2: Approach and Landing
You are on approach to the main runway of the airfield. All engines are
running, gear and flaps are fully raised. You are in the Pilot’s seat
behind the controls of the B-17 as it turns onto final approach.
You will need to follow the correct approach and ease the bomber onto
the runway. The mission ends once you’ve landed and brought the
aircraft to a complete halt.
• Press key M to take control.
1. Use the external camera views for maximum visibility.
2. Locate the main runway where you will land (it should be lined up
in front of you).
3. Drop your landing gear (Shift + Up Arrow).
4. Ease up on the all engine throttles.
5. Lower flaps (Shift + F).
6. Glide in to the runway and land all three wheels.
7. Cut throttle as plane rolls (- minus key).
8. Put Wheel Brakes on (Insert key) to stop aircraft moving.

Marty, Good advice from Chucky and Godzilla.. here's the other info.

Hi Marty,
I agree the B17 pilot views in the sim are terrible. And it’s one of my complaints too. However ,keep in mind that in a real B17 the views are only slightly better. B17s were flown by two very busy pilots, who were often helped by the other crew who ID objects on the ground to aid navigation and checked damage etc.. So “pause” the game to slow things down and pop to the outside view as needed to take a look around. This is really important later if you try a SC campaign when trying to land a heavily damaged ac..

Real life B17 landing the pilot would do the flying (wheel and throttles) and copilot would watch the instruments, drop the gear and flaps when directed to by the pilot, and most importantly, read-off airspeed to pilot . In the sim, the HUD displays your airspeed , simulating your copilot while you fly the plane.

Re: Training Mission #2 Approach and Landing

The mission will be judged successful if you put your fort down without damaging the gear and come to a stop on the tarmac. In this training mission the aircraft has already been trimmed and prop pitch is already set for you.


1. When the training mission starts the airfield is at your 1:00. I suggest pausing the sim, and go outside the aircraft and have a look around. Find the runway while paused. Switch to manual control, unpause, and steer your fort to line up the runway. Once lined up.. pause again. Jump back inside the pilot’s seat and the airstrip should be visible out the front window. Aim for the center of the runway.

2. Drop Gear, then flaps, and lock the tail wheel ( I suggest pausing and go outside and checking that your gear and flaps are down). ..

3. Watch the HUD (simulating your co-pilot reading off instruments to you) and keep up your airspeed about 110 -130 on the approach.

4.As you approach the end of the runway, start reducing throttle and lifting the nose gently to bleed speed, but not too much or you will lose control. Apply throttle if you’re dropping too fast. You will lose sight of the runway as you level off and touch. (B17 sits nose up when sitting on three wheels.) Your goal is to touch down at 100-110 on all three wheels simultaneously...

5. Unfortunately there is no feed back in the sim (like wheel screech or thump) to indicate that you touch the ground. You need to stop on the runway to successfully complete the training scenario. use the brakes to slow roll out, stop, set the parking brake and you should then be sent to debrief room

Chucky, godzilla1985, and especially Vox:

Thank you for the instructions...now that I know a little more about the technique I will try to turn each of your instructions into reality.

I am determined to be able top be able to Land the B-17 !

I really appreciate the time that you all spent to explain how to Land the B-17

I hope that in a few days I can report back that I have succeeded !

martymarty