WHERE ARE WHEEL LANDINGS APPROPRIATE? WHERE ARE WHEEL LANDINGS INAPPROPRIATE? * On narrow runways where tailwheel pilots must preserve forward visibility on the ground. * During tailwheel checkouts where an instructor asks the student to perform a wheel landing. * During formation landings where pilots must ensure the path ahead is clear. * Aircraft with a forward center of gravity that may not allow a three-point touchdown. * At short or rough airstrips, or where ground/propeller clearance is an issue. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? * Better forward visibility; less wear on the tailwheel assembly-and they just look cool. WHAT ARE THE DRAWBACKS? * Higher touchdown speeds and longer ground rolls. IN LEVEL FLIGHT with the main wheels one foot off the ground, try to maintain flight the entire length of the runway. Be surprised when the main wheels touch. WHEN THE MAIN wheels touch the runway, use forward stick to "pin" them on. Don't over do it or the airplane will wheelbarrow in a tail-high attitude. "FLY" THE TAILWHEEL to the ground as the airplane decelerates. Be patient. Forcing it down too soon can increase the wing's angle of attack and lift the airplane off the ground. MAY 2015 / FLIGHT TRAINING / 51