Chapter 14: Transition to Tailwheel Airplanes Audiobook (mp3)
Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3C)
Chapter 14: Transition to Tailwheel Airplanes
Introduction
Due to their design and structure, tailwheel airplanes (tailwheels) exhibit operational and handling characteristics different from those of tricycle-gear airplanes (nose-wheels). [Figure 14-1]
A few aircraft, primarily antique and experimental, may have a tailskid instead of a tailwheel.
The same principles discussed in this chapter usually apply to tailskid.
In general, tailwheels are less forgiving of pilot error while in contact with the ground than are nose-wheels.
This chapter focuses on the operational differences that occur during ground operations, takeoffs, and landings.
Although still termed “conventional-gear airplanes,” tailwheel designs are most likely to be encountered today by pilots who have first learned in nose-wheels.
Therefore, tailwheel operations are approached as they appear to a pilot making a transition from nosewheel designs.