Spin Tests of a 1/20-Scale Model of the Bell P-39D-1 Airplane

In accordance with the request of the Materiel Center, Wright Field, supplementary spin-tunnel tests have been made on a 1/20-scale model of the-Bell P-39D airplane. The purpose of these tests was t. obtain information as to the spin characteristics of the current production version of - the airplane designated as the P-39D-1. It is understood that the Bell Aircraft Corporation has been requested by the Army Air Forces to perform flight spin demonstrations of the P-39D-1. Tests were made for the normal loading of the airplane in the clean condition and for a loading simulating removal of wing-gun ammunition. Mr. F. D. Townsend, Bell Aircraft Corporation representative, witnessed most of the tests.