Trailwheel Training – Course Information
Welcome to our Tailwheel Endorsement Course, where we’ll teach you everything you need to know to become proficient in flying a tailwheel aircraft. This endorsement is proficiency-based, meaning that there is no minimum hour requirement to earn your endorsement. Most pilots require a minimum of 8-10 hours to become proficient and comfortable in the airplane.
Our course covers the required training for the tailwheel endorsement per 14 CFR § 61.31, which includes normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings, wheel landings, and go-around procedures. But our tailwheel training goes above and beyond to enhance your skills, covering many additional items such as slow flight, power-on and power-off stalls, steep turns, short field and soft field takeoffs and landings, power-off 180-degree approaches and landings, takeoffs and landings in crosswinds greater than 10 knots, forward slips, grass strip operations, and bounce recoveries.
Training typically begins with maneuvers in the practice area, followed by takeoffs and landings on grass to learn the basics. From there, you’ll start working on takeoffs and landings on pavement as well as the other additional items listed above. Once you and your instructor feel you are proficient, he will assess your skills and determine whether you are ready to begin operating the aircraft solo.
To enroll in our Tailwheel Endorsement Course, you must have a valid FAA Private Pilot license (minimum) and current medical. We also offer a bundle and save discount if you bundle two or more packages. For more information about cost, requirements and duration for the course click the button below.
Tailwheel Training & Endorsement – General Information
For pilots who want to advance their flying skills and gain additional flight knowledge, obtaining a tailwheel endorsement can be a great way to do so. Tailwheel training is focused on helping pilots learn how to fly tailwheel airplanes, which require a different skill set than traditional tricycle gear aircraft. In this article, we will explore what tailwheel training is, why it’s important, and how you can earn your tailwheel endorsement.
What is tailwheel training?
Why is it important?
Tailwheel training is a specialized type of flight training that teaches pilots how to fly aircraft with a tailwheel, also known as a “taildragger”. Tailwheel airplanes have a different type of landing gear configuration from traditional tricycle gear airplanes, making them more challenging to operate. The training is important because it allows pilots to become proficient in flying tailwheel airplanes, which can expand their skills and make them more versatile pilots.
What are the benefits?
There are several benefits to obtaining a tailwheel endorsement. First, it can improve a pilot’s overall flying ability, including their stick and rudder skills. Flying a tailwheel airplane requires the use of the rudder in a much more active way than in tricycle gear airplanes, which helps pilots become more proficient in using the rudder. Additionally, tailwheel airplanes are often more sensitive to wind and airspeed than tricycle gear airplanes, which teaches pilots to be more precise and disciplined in their flying.
What is involved in the training process?
The tailwheel training process typically involves a combination of ground instruction and flight lessons. Pilots will learn about the aircraft’s systems, as well as the principles of conventional gear flying. They will also learn about the different types of landings, including the short-field approach and landing. During flight lessons, pilots will learn to take off and land the tailwheel airplane by focusing on utilizing the rudder, maintaining proper airspeed, and making gentle corrections to keep the airplane straight and level.
How do I get a tailwheel endorsement?
What are the requirements?
To earn your tailwheel endorsement, you must first be a private pilot or higher and have a minimum of 40 hours of flight time as a pilot in command (PIC). You will also need to complete a minimum of 8 hours of tailwheel flight training, including at least 25 takeoffs and 25 landings in a tailwheel airplane. Additionally, you will be required to pass a practical test with an FAA examiner.
What are some common misconceptions about tailwheel flying?
There are several common misconceptions about tailwheel flying. The first is that tailwheel airplanes are inherently more dangerous than tricycle-gear airplanes. While it’s true that tailwheel airplanes require more precision and attention to fly, they can be just as safe as any other type of airplane when operated properly. Another common misconception is that tailwheel airplanes are only suitable for advanced pilots. While they do require more advanced skills than tricycle gear airplanes, pilots of all skill levels can learn to fly them with proper instruction and training.
What does the training typically consist of?
The training for a tailwheel endorsement typically consists of flight lessons with a qualified tailwheel instructor. During these lessons, pilots will learn basic tailwheel concepts such as takeoff and landing techniques, as well as more advanced skills such as spin training and short-field landings. Pilots will also need to become proficient in using the rudder, which is a critical part of tailwheel flying.
Why is a tailwheel endorsement important?
What are the benefits of having a tailwheel endorsement?
Having a tailwheel endorsement can improve a pilot’s overall flying skills by teaching them to fly a more challenging type of aircraft. Additionally, it can make them more attractive to employers who are looking for versatile and skilled pilots. Pilots with a tailwheel endorsement are also often more comfortable with flying in a variety of conditions, making them better equipped to handle unexpected situations in the air.
What types of aircraft require a tailwheel endorsement?
There are several types of aircraft that require a tailwheel endorsement to operate legally. These include tailwheel airplanes like the Piper Cub or the Citabria, as well as other classic aircraft like the Stearman or the Husky. Some pilots also choose to obtain a tailwheel endorsement simply to become more proficient in flying tailwheel airplanes, even if they don’t plan to fly them regularly.
How can a tailwheel endorsement improve my flying skills?
A tailwheel endorsement can improve a pilot’s flying skills by teaching them to be more precise, disciplined, and aware of their airplane’s movements. It also requires them to become more proficient in using their rudder, which is a critical part of flying any type of airplane. Pilots who are comfortable with flying tailwheel airplanes are often better equipped to handle unexpected situations in the air, making them safer pilots overall.
What is involved in tailwheel flight training?
What are some common challenges of tailwheel flying?
One of the most common challenges of tailwheel flying is mastering the art of takeoff and landing. Tailwheel airplanes require a different technique than tricycle gear airplanes, and it can take some time to develop the necessary skills. Pilots will also need to become comfortable using the rudder in a more active way, which can be a challenge for those who are used to flying tricycle gear airplanes.
What are some tips for landing a tailwheel airplane?
One of the most important tips for landing a tailwheel airplane is to focus on keeping the airplane straight and level during the approach and landing. It’s also important to maintain proper airspeed and to use gentle, precise corrections to keep the airplane on course. Additionally, pilots should be aware of their airplane’s tendency to ground loop, which can occur if the airplane’s tail swings to the side during landing.
What are some common mistakes to avoid during tailwheel training?
One of the most common mistakes made during tailwheel training is over-controlling the airplane. Pilots who are used to flying tricycle gear airplanes may be tempted to use too much rudder or make abrupt control inputs, which can cause the airplane to become unstable. It’s important to make small, gentle corrections and to be patient during the learning process.
What should I expect during a tailwheel flight training course?
During a tailwheel flight training course, pilots can expect to spend a significant amount of time practicing takeoffs and landings. They will also learn about the different types of tailwheel airplanes and the principles of conventional gear flying. Additionally, they may receive instruction in advanced tailwheel techniques such as spin training and short-field landings. The goal is to become a proficient and skilled tailwheel pilot who is comfortable flying in a variety of conditions.
In conclusion, earning your tailwheel endorsement can be a valuable and rewarding experience for pilots of all skill levels. By learning to fly tailwheel airplanes, pilots can improve their flying skills, become more versatile, and expand their horizons in the world of aviation. Whether you are a seasoned pilot or just starting out, tailwheel training can take your flying to the next level.
Tailwheel Training Course
Tailwheel endorsements are proficiency-based, meaning there is no minimum hour requirement to earn your endorsement. Most pilots require a minimum of 8-10 hours to become proficient and comfortable in the airplane.
Required training for the tailwheel endorsement per 14 CFR § 61.31 consists of:
- Normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings
- Wheel landings
- Go-around procedures
Your tailwheel training will cover many additional items to enhance your skills:
- Slow flight, power-on and power-off stalls, steep turns
- Short-field and soft-field takeoffs and landings
- Power-off 180-degree approaches and landings
- Takeoffs and landings in crosswinds greater than 10 knots
- Forward slips
- Grass strip operations (dependent upon ground conditions)
- Bounce recoveries
Training typically begins with maneuvers in the practice area, followed by takeoffs and landings on the grass to learn the basics. From there, you’ll start working on takeoffs and landings on the pavement as well as the other additional items listed above. Once you and your instructor feel you are proficient, he will assess your skills and determine whether you are ready to begin operating the aircraft solo.
Upon completing the course satisfactorily, you’ll earn your tailwheel endorsement.
Program Cost & Scheduling
3-Day Course. $2,250 ($750.00 per day) Includes rental of Decathlon 8KCAB*
*Additional time (if needed) billed at $200/hr. For plane and instructor.
A $1,000.00 deposit confirms your position on the training schedule. The balance is due ten days prior to the start of your program. Payments are not refundable but can be used for rescheduling within 6 months. We accept cash, checks, Venmo, MasterCard and Visa.
Bundle and Save: If you bundle two or more packages, you will receive a discount.
Must have a valid FAA Private Pilot license (minimum) and current medical.