6.23
Cuban Eight (Figure 6.10).
6.23. Cuban Eight (Figure 6.10).
p. 122
6.23.1. Objective. Maintain coordinated flight through two successive loop-type turns in the vertical.
p. 122
6.23.2. Description. Each half of this maneuver is a combination of a slightly modified loop and Immelmann. The first portion of each leaf is approximately the first five-eighths of a loop followed by a half roll. The pull and roll are then repeated in the opposite direction. The maneuver looks like an “8” on its side. The maneuver is complete at level flight, with entry airspeed and on original heading.
p. 122
6.23.2.1. Airspeed - 230-250 KIAS.
p. 122
6.23.2.2. Power - MAX.
p. 123
6.23.2.3. Attitude - Wings level to horizon throughout maneuver.
p. 123
6.23.2.4. Altitude - Approximately 3,000 feet above entry altitude.
p. 123
6.23.2.5. FCP visual reference:
p. 123
6.23.2.5.1. Wingtips equidistant from horizon in pull-up.
p. 123
6.23.2.5.2. Seat/parachute saddle strap on horizon when 45 degrees nose low, inverted.
p. 123
6.23.3. Procedure. Begin with briefed entry airspeed and power setting. Perform the first part of a loop until over the top, inverted. After passing through inverted-level flight, continue the loop until approaching 45 degrees nose low, inverted. Execute a coordinated half roll in either direction. Neutralize the elevator pressure to keep the nose frozen in the same vertical plane. After completing the half roll, maintain 45 degrees nose low until beginning the pull-up for the second half of the maneuver. Plan to initiate the pull-up to attain briefed entry airspeed at the horizon (passing through level flight). To accomplish this, begin the pull-up approximately 35- 40 KIAS below briefed entry airspeed (the airspeed lead point is approximately equal to number of degrees of nose-low pitch). Continue the pull-up into another loop entry. The second half of the Cuban Eight is identical to the first except the roll is in the opposite direction.
p. 123
6.23.4. Technique. Align the aircraft with a road or section line to provide a visual reference for a straight pull. If a ground reference is not available, the heading bug may be used to ensure a straight pull. Upon reaching 45 degrees nose low, inverted flight (seat/parachute saddle strap on the horizon), momentarily freeze the control stick/sight picture before the coordinated roll. To maintain 45 degrees nose low, pick a point on the ground and freeze it in the windscreen. Verbalizing the roll direction on the first half of the maneuver should help ensure the roll on the second half of the maneuver is in the correct direction.
pp. 123-124