airshow flying

aviation history Bob Hoover dead-stick landing energy management Shrike Commander test pilots

The Hangar Aug 13, 2026

Bob Hoover, the Iced Tea Barrel Roll, and the Test Pilot Who Stole a Focke-Wulf One Ninety to Escape a German Prison Camp

The story of Bob Hoover - POW escapee, X-1 backup pilot, and the airshow legend who poured iced tea during a barrel roll.

Taildragger

The Hangar Apr 16, 2026

Bob Hoover and the dead-stick energy management routine that defined airshow flying

Bob Hoover's dead-stick Shrike Commander routine defined airshow flying for 40 years and remains the gold standard for energy management.

Taildragger