To do a barrel roll in an airplane, the pilot performs a full axial rotation while flying straight forward, causing the plane to roll around its longitudinal axis and momentarily be upside down before returning to level flight. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Start with steady flight: Fly at a consistent speed and balanced position, keeping the nose of the plane facing the same direction throughout the maneuver.
- Pick a reference point: Choose a point on the horizon about 45 degrees off your flight path to keep your orientation during the roll.
- Initiate the roll: Pull back slightly on the stick to raise the nose about 30 degrees and start rolling the plane by applying aileron input (stick left or right) while maintaining back pressure to keep the nose moving in a circular path around the reference point.
- Control roll and pitch: Maintain a constant roll rate and pitch angle so the plane completes a smooth 360-degree roll. Use rudder and elevator as needed to keep the nose on the circular path and avoid slipping or altitude loss.
- Manage speed and altitude: Apply some back pressure at the end of the roll to regain any lost altitude and maintain cruising speed. Avoid rolling too fast at the start to prevent excessive G-forces and loss of control.
- Complete the roll: The plane should return to level flight on the same heading and altitude as before the maneuver, with the reference point appearing stationary relative to the plane.
Common mistakes include rolling too fast at the start, losing altitude, or not keeping the nose on a consistent circular path, which can cause the plane to veer off course or slip
. If you are referring to the "barrel roll" in a gaming or computer context (like Google search or Ace Combat), it usually involves pressing certain keys or commands to rotate the screen or plane visually, such as typing "do a barrel roll" in Google search or pressing specific control inputs in a flight game
. In summary, performing a barrel roll in a real plane requires coordinated control of pitch, roll, and yaw while maintaining orientation and speed throughout the maneuver.
