I want to see a tail dragger do this...

[n468ac]

http://www.checca.net/ftp/X_windlandings.wmv


Thats why you need to build a tri-gear ( ).

[RScott]

Take an old taildragger like my Interstate Cadet & just land into the wind on a runway as wide as they are using.

Actually, a windstorm came up one day when I was flying, I landed across the runway to land into the wind. Runway was 60 ft. wide.

Not a demonstration of my skill, just luck. The plane is still usable.

[Mike S]

I landed my 1948 Stinson 108-3, (big tail) in a 45 degree 35 gusting to 40 cross wind at Fox field, Lancaster, Ca. If someone were on the ground to watch, they would have seen an approach just like that.

Just put it down on the mains, hold the tail off, windward aeliron UP to spoil lift on that wing, and keep it straight with the rudder until slow enough to put the tail down.

Only problem, I could not turn off the runway----------when that big old fin got 90 to the wind, the whole a/c weathervaned back into the wind.

I would love to see one of those heave birds do that same stunt on a grass or gravel strip.

Mike

[joe gremlin]

I once put a Supercub down with 21 knot winds 90 degrees to the runway.

I asked the FBO for the perferred runway on the way in. The guy replied it was my choice since winds were 90 degrees to the strip. The guy told me afterward that when he heard me call 'Supercub downwind for 24' he put his coat on and ran outside because he sure he was about to see an accident.

I let him down though. Niether the nose or tail left the centerline until I turned onto the taxiway. Piece of cake.

[RudiGreyling]

If I understand the theory behind a "Wheeled" TD landing correctly, you might be able to do it exactly the same...Put down on mains first and then correct and let the little wheel down.

Comments from the guys that know how to do a Wheeled landing?

[mgomez]

Never mind a taildragger...the average pilot can't do that in a tricycle gear airplane! Do you think it's a coincidence that every airplane in that video was in Boeing factory colors? They were probably all flown by their test pilots, who one suspects are better than the average stick. They may even know what those annoying pedals on the floor are for.

Also, remember that telephoto lenses tend to exaggerate the crab angle.

[rv8bldr]

Just put a wing down into wind, keep it straight with rudder, and land on one wheel keeping the tail up. It is actually fairly easy (depending on the winds, of course ;-) Once the downwind wheel is on the ground, a GENTLE application of differential braking should keep the nose pointed in the right direction if the wind is really strong. I have landed my -8 in 90 deg/12-14 kt crosswinds this way. I realize that is not a really high number, but it was for me ;-) (200 hr pilot, mostly on 172s)

Cheers

[rv8ch]

Impressive landings! I think I'd divert to an airport with a more appropriate runway. Judging from the amount of crab, I'm guessing you would not need a very long runway! Steady crosswinds are one thing, it's the gusty, turbulent crosswinds that I find "entertaining".

[Deuskid]

Still researching planes so pardon the 'simple' question but would a 9 or 9a be the 'best' RV in cross wind situations?

thanks

John

[Mike S]

The one wheel landing mentioned by Mark, rv8bldr, works also, I had to do it in my t/d transition training, but I think it is easier to land as in the video.

The one wheel thing is something that requires more practice, and if you lose it in landing, the plane is going to flip/roll over with much more enegry (momentium) than a messed up wheel landing.

Bottom line is to get training in these techniques from a qualified t/d instructor, and them avoid the conditions that you are not qualified to handle whenever you can.

And of course, practice helps.

Mike