Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

What requirement must be met for takeoffs and landings in a tailwheel airplane to satisfy recency of experience?

1. Must be done at an altitude of 1,000 feet

2. Must be to a full stop

3. Only one takeoff is needed

4. Practice landings without full stop are sufficient

The correct answer is: Must be to a full stop

To satisfy the recency of experience requirements for takeoffs and landings in a tailwheel airplane, the regulation specifies that the landings must be made to a full stop. This requirement ensures that the pilot demonstrates proficiency not just in the takeoff process but also in executing a complete landing, which includes managing the aircraft during the descent, touch down, and roll-out phases appropriately. Full-stop landings allow pilots to practice the critical skill set needed to handle the unique challenges associated with tailwheel airplanes, which often require more precise handling and control during the landing phase compared to tricycle gear aircraft. Other options, such as takeoffs being conducted at a specific altitude, or only needing one takeoff, do not meet the specified criteria set forth in the regulations. Additionally, while practice landings without a full stop might enhance a pilot's skills, they do not satisfy the requirement for recency, which explicitly requires at least one landing to full stop for it to count as valid experience.