AFOQT Practice Test

What is the main advantage of tail wheel landing gear?

1. Better visibility for ground operations

2. Increased braking ability

3. Performance on non-paved runways

4. Higher landing speeds

The correct answer is: Performance on non-paved runways

The main advantage of tail wheel landing gear is its performance on non-paved runways. Tail wheel aircraft generally have better cross-country capability on softer surfaces, such as grass, dirt, or other unpaved runways. The tail wheel design allows the aircraft to take off and land on these types of surfaces more effectively than tricycle landing gear configurations, which can be prone to nose gear damage or get stuck in soft ground. Additionally, tail wheel aircraft tend to be more agile on the ground, making them easier to maneuver in a variety of environments, which is particularly beneficial for operations in less developed areas. This design can also help with better overall ground handling characteristics in low-speed scenarios.