Prone Pilot Fighter Aircraft: Should they make a comback?

After seeing the PronePilot Gloster Meteor and the XP-79 Flying Ram, I was thinking this configuration should make a comeback for any upcoming ATF projects as it would reduce air friction and would also be cheaper/easier to produce/maintain. It may also make emergency escaping easier.

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I have always supported the idea. I would reduce the effects of G forces on the pilot, but would make checking your six more difficult. I think that the F-16 is the best compromise, the seat is reclined significantly to address the problem if Gs.

A lot of pilots seem to say that reduces your ability to turn your head somewhat though.

reply to post by Cutaway


I'd go one step better and cheer for UCAV's, but that's just me. The prone pilot tests had mixed results as I remember, but it was interesting.

As a erm, pilot (maybe not fighter jets, but you get the idea), I dispise the idea of lying down. ARGH.

The F16s reclined seat does little to protect the pilot from G's, I've heard it's more due to fact a unreclined seat wouldn't fit in the cockpit .

Originally posted by BlackWidow23
I have always supported the idea. I would reduce the effects of G forces on the pilot, but would make checking your six more difficult. I think that the F-16 is the best compromise, the seat is reclined significantly to address the problem if Gs.

Pilots HATE the F-16 seat.


It wrecks their necks when they have to crank to check their '6'.