Definition
A logbook endorsement from an authorized flight instructor certifying that a pilot has received and is proficient in the ground and flight training required to act as pilot in command of a tailwheel airplane, as required by 14 CFR 61.31(i). The training must include normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings, wheel landings (unless the manufacturer recommends otherwise), and go-around procedures.
Plain English
A signed sign-off from an instructor showing a pilot has been trained to fly an airplane with a small wheel under the tail instead of one under the nose, and is allowed to fly that type of airplane on their own.
Context Anchor
Seen when a flight school or training organization describes additional aircraft qualifications a pilot may need before renting, training in, or flying certain airplanes.
Derivation
A 'tailwheel' airplane has its small landing wheel at the tail, with the two main wheels forward — the opposite of a 'nosewheel' (tricycle gear) airplane. These aircraft sit nose-high on the ground and handle differently on takeoff and landing, which is why a separate qualification is required.
Why Pilots Care
Tailwheel airplanes handle differently on the ground and can ground-loop if mishandled; the qualification ensures the pilot has demonstrated the required skills.
Intuition Check
Do not read “qualification” as “I feel capable.” In this context, it means the required training and instructor sign-off are in your logbook.
Example Sentence 1
Before the club would let her solo the Piper Cub, she had to earn her tail wheel qualification with one of their instructors.
Example Sentence 2
Many vintage aircraft require tail wheel qualification before a pilot can rent or instruct in them.