Sporty’s has introduced its new Tailwheel Checkout course, hosted by airshow pilot Patty Wagstaff.
The course includes more than two hours of practical tips for mastering these demanding airplanes, based on Wagstaff’s decades of flying taildraggers at airshows, in Africa, and everywhere in between, according to Sporty’s officials.
“Learning to fly a taildragger is one of the best ways to improve your flying skills,” said Wagstaff. “With this new course, pilots will learn both the theory and practical knowledge they need to earn the endorsement and unlock the full potential of these amazing airplanes.”
Throughout the course, 4K video shows a wide variety of taildraggers operating in diverse environments. Featured airplanes include the Citabria, Super Decathlon, Extra 300, Piper Super Cub, and Cessna 180. Multiple camera angles help pilots visualize every maneuver from start to finish, and 3D animations explore key topics like ground loops and P-factor, Sporty’s officials note.
The course covers both the theory and practice of flying tailwheel airplanes. It begins with a look at the airplanes and their systems, then breaks down the physics of taildraggers, including stability, inertia, left-turning tendencies, and why ground loops happen. Next comes a look at tailwheel preflight inspections, taxiing techniques, and all the varieties of tailwheel takeoffs. There’s also a detailed examination of landings, including three point and wheel, plus Wagstaff’s three-step method.
In the advanced tailwheel section, pilots learn about slips, how to use flaps, common mistakes during soft field landings, and even a few bush pilot techniques demonstrated in the wilderness of Alaska. Special “what if?” sections teach how to react when things go wrong, and are packed with real world advice.
The course also includes a review quiz, certificate of completion, and a reference library.
Sporty’s Tailwheel Checkout Course includes free lifetime updates and is available for an introductory price of $99.99.