What altitude change is expected from a barrel roll?

When performing a barrel roll, the aircraft typically experiences a complex aerodynamic maneuver that can lead to changes in altitude due to both the vertical and horizontal components of the movement. During a barrel roll, the aircraft performs a combination of climb, roll, and descent.

The expected altitude change can indeed range significantly, influenced by factors such as the aircraft's speed, configuration, and the maneuver's execution. A common outcome noted in trained experiences is a general altitude change of approximately +2,000 feet during the initial phase of the roll followed by a descent that can lead to about -1,000 feet, combining to show that the maneuver results in a net altitude fluctuation.

This range captures the dynamic nature of the roll, where initial lift can cause a climb followed by descent phases as the aircraft completes the roll. Understanding these parameters is crucial for pilots executing aerobatic maneuvers, as maintaining awareness of altitude shift contributes to overall safety and control in flight.