Lol, I tried that very mission just yesterday and after like 20 tries managed it. I did it: with Landing Flaps, 50% fuel, let my engine rev up a bit and then relased chocks. Made it off the carrier and dropped to like 10 inches above the water, but it worked unlike the nose dive like before...it seemed the landing flaps gave me just enough lift. Oh, and as soon as i get off the ground or carrier I lift my gear to reduce the drag from those..

I now wonder how the catapult works so I can fly the F9F Panther...

This is actually an old thread from last year. There is an ongoing discussion about the Corsair's lack of performance since the 4.11 update HERE