Sportys Tailwheel Checkout

Transitioning to a tailwheel airplane is one of the most rewarding things a pilot can do, but the margins of error are narrower than a tricycle gear airplane. We explain the specific skills that pilots must develop during their transition to tailwheel flying.

Reviews the common types of tailwheel airplanes, their history, how they are typically used, and the kinds of missions each model excels at.

There are some different things to consider when pre-flighting a taildragger. The flight controls, propeller, landing gear, tires and brakes require extra attention…as does securing your airplane after the flight.

There’s an old saying that a tailwheel pilot “flies” their airplane from engine start all the way to the chocks, and that’s pretty accurate. Patty explains the best practices for safely taxiing your taildragger—even when the wind is strong.

Reviews common tailwheel taxi errors and gives you tips to help avoid them. Common errors include taxiing too fast/too slow, swerving more than intended, turning (or not) into the wind, keeping the tail from coming up, and more.

Tailwheel airplanes require extra attention during takeoff. Patty gives you step-by-step instructions on how to complete a smooth and safe takeoff in your tailwheel airplane, in both normal and crosswind conditions.

Reviews common tailwheel takeoff errors with tips to avoid them. Includes dragging the brakes, raising the tail too quickly, drifting off centerline, not applying enough rudder, lifting off too soon, bouncing, touching back down after takeoff, aborted takeoffs, and more.

There are two main methods for landing a tailwheel aircraft: The 3-Point landing and the Wheel Landing. Patty teaches you a simple three-step method for both types of landings. This method can be applied to nosewheel airplanes, too.

Reviews common tailwheel landing errors with tips to avoid them. Includes touching down too fast/too slow, flaring too high, bouncing, letting the tailwheel down too quickly, not using enough rudder, forcing it on, swerving after landing, relaxing back pressure too soon, and more.

To take your tailwheel flying to the next level, you need several specific skills. This includes making a stable or precision approach, touching down on a predetermined spot, and knowing how to properly (and safely) slip your taildragger.

Soft field surfaces are where the taildragger often has a real advantage. Patty explains the two methods for departing from a soft field (3-point and tailwheel low takeoff) as well as specific tips and techniques that will help you land with greater control in all wind conditions.

Short field operations require the pilot to fly the airplane at its maximum performance profile in order to safely take off and land in the shortest distance possible. Patty teaches 2 short field takeoff methods and a landing technique that will give you smooth and consistent touchdowns.

Advanced tailwheel flying requires an extra level of attention to detail, and the desire to continue to improve your skills and maintain currency. Patty discusses her bush flying experiences in Alaska and Africa, and what it taught her about safe tailwheel operations.

If you’re interested in the growing world of backcountry flying, there has never been a better time to get involved. The Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) offers some valuable resources that can help you find new adventures—without sacrificing safety.