Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Commercial Pilot License Practice Questions and Study Guide

To be qualified as pilot-in-command of a tailwheel airplane, it is essential to have flight training from an authorized instructor, accompanied by a specific endorsement in your logbook. This requirement ensures that the pilot has received proper instruction on the unique handling characteristics and operational procedures associated with tailwheel aircraft. Tailwheel airplanes typically have different flight dynamics than tricycle gear aircraft, and the endorsement acts as official validation that the pilot has been trained and deemed competent to operate such aircraft safely.

The requirement for a logbook endorsement also helps maintain a standard across the aviation community, ensuring that all pilots operating tailwheel aircraft have met a recognized level of proficiency. Moreover, this endorsement requirement emphasizes the importance of understanding the specialized techniques involved in flying tailwheel aircraft, such as managing ground handling and implementing proper take-off and landing techniques. Thus, having the endorsement from an authorized instructor is a critical step in preparing for safe operations as a pilot-in-command in this category of aircraft.