L-1011 Flight Controls: Flying Stabilizer (27-23)

The L-1011 has a flying stabilizer that is powered by all four hydraulic systems. However, any one of the hydraulic systems alone is capable of controlling the airplane. The advantages of a flying tail/stabilizer are:

• No mistrim problem 
• No stalling drive mechanisms 
• The elevator is mechanically slaved 
• Non-linear controls 
• Column remains in position 

The feeling on the column is created by springs. There is no direct force feedback, it is created through the stabilizer position and the Mach number. Everything is done fully by hydraulics, there is no electrical power required.