Flying the X-15

Abstract

I would like to begin by expressing my appreciation to the Society, especially the Test Pilots’ Group, and specifically to Bill Bedford for the invitation. It is a distinct pleasure and certainly an honour for me to be here. My discussion will centre on the X-15 research aeroplane, some of the essential items that we uncovered in our development flying programme and some characteristics of the aeroplane. I would hope I could go into this in sufficient detail. Being away from the programme for some time now, I have lost some of the intimacy that I had in the past but I think not completely so. At least, not enough so it will deny me the opportunity to present you with some information.