XFY-1 Vertical take-off mechanics
The plane takes off vertically, with the prop wash blowing over conventional control surfaces. To tilt forwards the pilot pushes the stick forward in the usual way to "lower" the elevators and tip the nose "down". As the plane tips progressively over, it progressively gains flying speed and lift transfers to the delta wings. At the same time, the elevators are brought back to the level for conventional flight. Landing is the same thing in reverse, with the elevators being raised.

Manoeuvring in vertical mode is again just the same, but only a small control movement is needed for a gentle tip in the right direction: elevators in one axis, rudders in the other. The elevators also act as ailerons, which allow the pilot to gently spin the plane round even when vertical.