Control positioning while taxiing
Aileron and elevator position depends on wind direction relative to nose; counters wind, helps turns.
| Wind | Applies to | Column | Aileron (windward wing) | Elevator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ahead of wingtip | Direct crosswind or quartering headwind | Toward wind | Up | Neutral |
| Behind wingtip | Quartering tailwind, nose wheel aircraft | Away from wind AND forward | Down | Down |
- Ahead of wingtip: rudder as needed to stop turn into wind.
- Behind wingtip: high-wing: tailwind can lift tail toward nose-over (extra care). Avoid sharp braking, sudden power bursts.
Other cases:
- Turning into wind: column opposite turn direction assists. Turn right: column left (and vice versa).
- Downwind to upwind turn: slow first. Speed adds centrifugal force; top-heavy aircraft can overturn.
- Soft or rough surface (more than normal power needed to keep moving): column firmly back, unless wind strength and direction say otherwise.
- Some nose wheel manufacturers recommend different aileron use: follow AFM.
Trap: headwind position (aileron up) in quartering TAILWIND. Reverse: aileron down on windward wing, elevator forward.
References
- TP 1102 Ex.4 Taxiing: Use of Controls While Taxiing
- TP 1102 Fig 2-6 (Taxiing Diagram)