Flutter: The Early Killer

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Flutter is one of aviation’s most dangerous aerodynamic problems—and in the early days of flight, pilots and engineers learned about it the hard way. In this episode of In The Hangar, Dan Millican sits down with A&P/IA Chelsea Smith to talk about control surface flutter: what causes it, why it can become destructive so quickly, and how decades of engineering and hard-earned lessons have helped make modern aircraft safer. In this episode:

• What control surface flutter actually is
• Why excessive airspeed can trigger flutter
• The importance of properly balanced ailerons, elevators, and rudders
• Why trim tabs and worn hinges deserve attention
• How painting or repairing a control surface can change its balance
• Why drain holes matter more than you might think
• Flutter considerations in experimental aircraft
• What pilots should know about VNE and aircraft modifications
• Chelsea’s firsthand experience with questionable maintenance practices
• How manufacturers test aircraft for flutter

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Dan Millican

Owner of a film/tv/video production company Serendipitous Films located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. When the drone craze hit the industry, Dan took advantage of the FAA’s 333 Exemption rule on commercial aerial work by getting his private pilot certificate and was hooked on aviation ever since. He has climbed the rating ladder and now holds his Certified Flight Instructor ticket. He purchased a Cessna 210 and uses it to carry crew and equipment to shoots all over the United States. In 2018, he created the YouTube channel “TakingOff” and like its name, it certainly has! The channel has experienced phenomenal growth and provides content that leaves the viewer a better person and pilot for watching.