During takeoff, the tailwheel is typically oriented in-line with the fuselage.

• A. In-line with the fuselage
• B. Swivels freely
• C. Detached from the aircraft
• D. Locked to prevent movement

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that ground handling for a tailwheel (conventional) airplane is aimed at keeping the airplane tracking straight on the runway during the takeoff roll. Keeping the tailwheel in-line with the fuselage aligns the steering geometry with the airplane’s forward motion, so the aircraft tends to go straight ahead rather than yawing or wandering due to any small steering inputs or gusts. A tailwheel that is free to swivel could respond unpredictably to wind or weight shifts, making it harder to hold a centered path as you accelerate and rotate. Detaching the tailwheel isn’t practical or how the gear is used, and locking it to prevent movement would eliminate the necessary steering control you rely on during ground handling and takeoff roll. Keeping the tailwheel aligned with the fuselage provides the most stable, predictable takeoff path.