Weight Focused on the Nosewheel
During takeoff and landing, the majority of an aircraft’s weight should be concentrated on its main gear rather than the nosewheel. When too much weight is transferred onto the nosewheel, a situation known as wheelbarrowing can occur. This can lead to a loss of directional control, cause the propeller to strike the ground, or even result in the nose gear collapsing. Additionally, with little weight on the main landing gear, there is limited braking action. And if all that wasn’t bad enough, in strong crosswind conditions, the plane can pivot around the nosewheel, weathervaning into the wind and making directional control extremely difficult.
Common Causes
According to the FAA, “one of the most common causes of wheelbarrowing during the landing roll is a simultaneous touchdown of the main and nose wheel with excessive speed, followed by application of forward pressure on the elevator control.” Another time wheelbarrowing can happen is when attempting to land at an overly fast airspeed. If overly focused on the landing point, one might “push” the nose into the ground first and then instinctively apply forward elevator pressure in an attempt to firmly plant the aircraft on the intended landing point.
If You Begin to Wheelbarrow, Here’s What to Do
The best thing to do if wheelbarrowing starts is a go-around. Increase back pressure while simultaneously increasing power, join the traffic pattern, and try the landing again. If a go-around isn’t an option, add a slight back pressure to resume a normal landing attitude and quickly transfer the aircraft’s weight to the main gear. Have you ever experienced wheelbarrowing during takeoff or landing? Tell us in the comments below.
Improve Your Landings for Less Than the Cost of a Flight Lesson
Do you have a perfect takeoff and landing every time? Neither do we. That’s why we created our Mastering Takeoffs and Landings online course. You’ll learn strategies, tactics, and fundamental principles that can be used on your next flight and in virtually any takeoff or landing scenario you’ll encounter as a pilot. And for less than the cost of a flight lesson, you get lifetime access to tools that increase your confidence and make your landings more consistent. Are you ready to get started? Click here to purchase Mastering Takeoffs and Landings now. Add To Cart Learn More
$139.99
Subscribe to the email and receive real-world flying tips and information directly in your inbox every week.
