Tailwheel Training in Australia: Why Every Pilot Should Get a Tailwheel Endorsement





7 December 2025



Tailwheel training is one of the most valuable investments a pilot can make. Even in an aviation world dominated by tricycle (nosewheel) aircraft, mastering tailwheel flying sharpens your core skills and improves safety in every type of aircraft.


Whether your goal is commercial aviation, aerobatic flying, bush operations, or simply enhancing your flying technique, a tailwheel endorsement equips pilots with precision, confidence, and advanced stick-and-rudder abilities.


At UPRT Australia, we offer tailwheel training in Brisbane, South-East Queensland, and travel Australia-wide to deliver professional instruction wherever you fly.


Tailwheel Training Builds Strong Stick-and-Rudder Skills


Flying a tailwheel aircraft demands accuracy, coordination, and attention to detail. Unlike modern trainers, taildraggers expose pilot errors, making them ideal for improving core flying skills.


Key skills developed through tailwheel training:



- Accurate rudder coordination

- Superior yaw and directional control

- Advanced energy management and aerodynamic awareness

- Smooth throttle, trim, and pitch handling


Pilots trained on tailwheel aircraft often demonstrate improved confidence and capability in any cockpit.


How Tailwheel Training Improves Landing and Crosswind Technique


A common question is: “Does tailwheel training improve landing skills?” Absolutely.


With the center of gravity behind the main wheels, tailwheel aircraft require precise approach, landing, and rollout. This strengthens your crosswind technique and overall ground handling.


Landing proficiency benefits:


- Improved crosswind handling

- Accurate alignment on approach and touchdown

- Smoother rollout and post-landing control

- Reduced dependence on nosewheel steering


These skills enhance safety in both general aviation and commercial operations.


Enhanced Ground Handling Awareness


Taxiing and ground control in a tailwheel aircraft requires finesse and anticipation. Tailwheel training teaches pilots to manage:


- Preventing ground loops

- Effective rudder and differential brake usage

- Correcting for wind during taxi and takeoff


Pilots with tailwheel experience handle all aircraft more safely on the ground.


Tailwheel Training for Aerobatics, Bush Flying, and Warbirds


Many high-performance or specialised aircraft are tailwheel-equipped. Completing a tailwheel endorsement opens doors to:


- Aerobatic aircraft (e.g., Pitts Special, Extra 300)

- Bush and STOL flying

- Warbird flying and formation work

- Vintage taildragger restorations


For adventurous pilots or those pursuing specialist aviation careers, tailwheel training is a gateway to new opportunities. UPRT Australia only hires instructors with vast experience in warbirds and aerobatics, so if you want to get into a warbird click here.


Tailwheel Training Builds Pilot Confidence


Flying a tailwheel is challenging but rewarding. It develops proactive control, refined airmanship, and decision-making skills, which translate to safer flying across all aircraft types.


Confidence benefits include:


- Better cockpit decision making

- Increased awareness during take-off and landing

- Enhanced aircraft handling skills


Tailwheel Endorsement Makes You a More Employable Pilot


A tailwheel endorsement demonstrates advanced stick-and-rudder skills and strong foundational training. Flight schools, charter companies, aerobatic operators, and bush flying organisations value pilots with this experience.


Adding tailwheel training to your logbook can help you stand out in competitive aviation pathways.


How to Book Tailwheel Training with UPRT Australia


Ready to start your tailwheel endorsement? UPRT Australia provides expert instruction in Brisbane, South-East Queensland, and travels Australia-wide.


- Learn more and book your tailwheel training here: UPRT Tailwheel Training

- Contact us for questions: UPRT Contact