B-25 "Notoriously difficult to fly"?

[famvburg]

I was watching "UFO Hunters" on The History Channel this morning & the guy on there was talking about this B-25 that crashed carrying 'UFO debris" from a June, 1947 UFO incident. Of course, THC showed everything from a B-25 to what looked like a Beech 18 to a Tu-16 when 'showing' a B-25, which is not surprising. However, at the supposed crash site of the B-25, he stated that "the B-25 was notoriously difficult to fly". HUH? I've never read nor heard anything like that. I'm thinking in his misdirected THC knowledge, he's thinking of the B-26 (not A-26). I was always under the impression that the B-25 was a pretty decent bird to fly. He said some other stuff I I know or don't think is accurate, so that pretty much shoots down any credibility, IMO. So, what say you B-25/PBJ jocks? "Notoriously difficult to fly" or not?

[b29flteng]

Easy, I've got some stick time, that proves it if I can do it. The USAF used the 25 as a primary twin engine trainer in the 50s. If it was difficult that wouldn't of happened.

[n5151ts]

[Jack Frost]

Easy to fly but a challange to learn to taxi!

[Craig]

When I was checking out in the B-25, I was told that it was easier to fly than the B-24. In some cases that is true, the B-25 being more responsive and maneuverable. Ground operations are about the same, as both use a castering nosewheel. Having said that, the B-25 does take some getting used to on the takeoff and landing rolls, using differential power and/or brakes. It can get away from you a lot quicker than the B-24. As far as taxiing, the B-25 is very responsive to differential power.

Craig

[valdez25]

I tell my friends, after you make the second power reduction on take off, it flies like a big 172, only noisier.

[Craig]

It is noisy, that is for sure. Ever see that WWII photo of the B-25 crew, flying with their mascot? It is a cat, sound asleep, in-flight, above the instrument panel! That cat had to be stone deaf!

Craig

[Crew29]

Has anybody here flown a heavy B-25 vs. a light, stripped out B-25?? I remember Russ saying his power settings were way off compared to some of the others at Thunder Over Michagan last year. He's also told me about shutting one down and how much the airplane didn't want to stay flying... I don't remember what Briefing Time weighs, but with all the armor plate in/on it I know its a big difference ...T

Last edited by Crew29 on Thu Jan 31, 2008 11:05 pm, edited 1 time in total.

[Stoney]

I haven't flown a B-25 since 1970, but I feel thet it is heavier then a DC-3. I have
another story, but will have to wait for another time.