F
F
L
L
I
I
G
G
H
H
T
T
T
T
R
R
A
A
I
I
N
N
I
I
N
N
G
G
S
S
U
U
P
P
P
P
L
L
E
E
M
M
E
E
N
N
T
T
for SPORT
STAR
Light Sport Aircraft
Document No.: S2006FTSUS Revision: -
Date of Issue: 15/01/2006
Page:
70/130
Since the nosewheel steering is directly connected with push-pull rods to
the rudder control system and also because the nosewheel gear leg has
zero track, the nosewheel steering is relatively sensitive. This should be
considered during operations, especially at the beginning when you are not
familiar with the Sportstar and the efficiency of it’s nosewheel steering.
Therefore , relatively small inputs are required for directional control and
during turns.
If a turn of the lowest possible radius is required, then slow down the
airplane or stop it. Use full deflection of the rudder pedal into the required
direction of the turn and using the same foot, apply brake to the inside of
the turn with the toe brake. Then gradually add power by throttle until the
airplane starts to turn.
4.7.4
Taxiing on Grass Runway
Taxiing on a grass runway is affected by grass height. It is not
recommended to taxi into grass that is too high (over 2/3 ft 200 mm)
because of risk of damage to the prop blades. Also the surface of the
airplane can become contaminated (landing gear, engine cowlings, wing
and the lower part of the fuselage etc.). Theses impurities are hard to clean
after they dry during flight.
The roughness of the surface of a grass runway is also a factor. If many
bumps are encountered, this can reduce the comfort level in the airplane
due to vibration. In such a case it is recommended to taxi very slow (at
maximum, the speed of a slow walk ).
When taxiing on a grass runway with wave like shapes on the surface of
the grass, the speed can be higher than a slow walk but not enough to
become launched airborne by the wave like contours of the grass.
More rpm is usually required to start moving and continue to taxi on a grass
runway, than on a paved surface.
The technique required for turning on the ground on a grass runway is not
much different from the technique used for turning on a paved surface.
Attention should be paid when turning on wet grass (during or after rain,
dew, etc.). During such conditions, the chances of sliding during braking is
increased. Experienced pilots may utilize a controlled skid to execute a
tight turn.
