According to 14 CFR 61.31(i), which flight maneuvers must be included in the training required before a pilot may act as pilot in command of a tailwheel airplane?
- ASpin entry and recovery in addition to normal takeoffs and landings
- BNormal and crosswind takeoffs and landings, wheel landings (unless the manufacturer recommends against them), and go-around procedures
- CShort-field and soft-field takeoffs and landings performed exclusively at night
- DOnly three-point landings performed to a full stop, with no requirement for crosswind operations
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings, wheel landings (unless the manufacturer recommends against them), and go-around procedures
14 CFR 61.31(i) requires that before acting as PIC of a tailwheel airplane, a pilot receive and log flight training from an authorized instructor that includes normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings, wheel landings (unless the manufacturer has recommended against such landings), and go-around procedures, along with a logbook endorsement of proficiency.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Spin training is not part of the tailwheel endorsement requirement.
- C. There is no requirement that this training be performed at night.
- D. Crosswind operations and go-arounds are also required, not just three-point landings.
Tailwheel Endorsement
Required by 61.31(i) before acting as PIC of a tailwheel airplane; training must cover normal/crosswind takeoffs and landings, wheel landings (if applicable), and go-arounds.
- Must include normal and crosswind takeoffs/landings
- Wheel landings required unless manufacturer advises against them
- Go-around procedures must also be trained and logged
Memory trick: Tailwheel = 'three-point AND wheel, crosswind too, don't forget the go-around.'