R
EVISION
:
-
D
ATE
:
12/29/04
P
AGE
:
8
Copyright
2004 Glasair Aviation, LLC Arlington, Washington All rights reserved
airplane around the locked wheel.
Inspect the landing gear thoroughly between taxi tests, checking for
such defects as loose wheel bearings, loose gear strut-attach hardware
or damaged tailwheel steering cables.
8-3.2 H
IGH
-S
PEED
T
AXI
As taxi testing continues, gradually increase the taxi speed as you feel
confident and comfortable to do so. Wear your parachute for the high-
speed taxi runs, not only to get used to wearing it, but also because of
the possibility of a high-speed taxi turning into an unintentional first
flight. This is not an uncommon occurrence but, with careful planning,
it should not happen. To avoid an unintentional first flight, do not
exceed 30 knots (35 m.p.h.) during high-speed taxi tests. If your
airspeed indicator does not register at such low speeds, slow down at
the first sign of the ASI coming alive.
CAUTION
The problem with an unintentional first flight arises when the
excited pilot tries to get the airplane back on the ground. If for
some reason you do lift off, do not try to force the airplane
back on the ground. Level off gently and ease the power off,
allowing the airplane to settle back to the runway. Bleed off
airspeed and flare to a normal, tailwheel-low landing.
High-speed taxi testing should be done on a long airport runway (at
least 4,000–5,000 ft.). Practice steering by tracking the runway
centerline. Almost immediately upon application of full power, the tail