When watching programmes about World War Two and the times before and after, I have always wondered why aircraft all had a tailwheel configuration, since this would have caused problems on the ground, such as limited visibility when taxying. However, what advantage did it have? Did raising the nose of the aircraft increase the angle of attack, meaning the wings give more left, and reducing the amount of runway length needed for take off? I am thinking of Hurricanes and Spitfire scrambling during the Battle Of Britain, or heavily bombed up Lancasters taking off.
When and why did things change? Modern light aircraft and trainers have tricycle type landing gear - does this come at the price of increased take off distance? Were any of the the early jets designed with tailwheels?
When and why did things change? Modern light aircraft and trainers have tricycle type landing gear - does this come at the price of increased take off distance? Were any of the the early jets designed with tailwheels?