XV-15 tilt rotor aircraft on VTOL stand
The XV-15 tilt rotor aircraft undergoing tests on the VTOL stand. This allowed the engine and rotor system to undergo realistic testing before being committed to actual free flight. For takeoff, the proprotors and their engines are used in the straight-up position where the thrust is directed downward. The XV-15 then climbs vertically into the air like a helicopter. Once off the ground, the XV-15 has the ability to fly in one of two different modes. It can fly as a helicopter, in the partially converted airplane mode or, it can convert from the helicopter mode to the airplane mode.
Credit: NASA
Image Number: ECN-13840
Date: October 19, 1980
XV-15 tilt rotor aircraft on VTOL stand
The XV-15 tilt rotor aircraft undergoing tests on the VTOL stand. This allowed the engine and rotor system to undergo realistic testing before being committed to actual free flight. For takeoff, the proprotors and their engines are used in the straight-up position where the thrust is directed downward. The XV-15 then climbs vertically into the air like a helicopter. Once off the ground, the XV-15 has the ability to fly in one of two different modes. It can fly as a helicopter, in the partially converted airplane mode or, it can convert from the helicopter mode to the airplane mode.
Credit: NASA
Image Number: ECN-13840
Date: October 19, 1980