Chapter 13 Transition to Tailwheel  Airplanes Introduction Due to their design and structure, tailwheel airplanes  (tailwheels) exhibit operational and handling characteristics  different from those of tricycle-gear airplanes (nosewheels).  [Figure 13-1]  In general, tailwheels are less forgiving of pilot  error while in contact with the ground than are nosewheels.  This chapter focuses on the operational differences that occur  during ground operations, takeoffs, and landings. Although still termed “conventional-gear airplanes,”  tailwheel designs are most likely to be encountered today  by pilots who have first learned in nosewheels. Therefore,  tailwheel operations are approached as they appear to a pilot  making a transition from nosewheel designs. 