Crosswind component

[2066]

David wrote: "Anyone have any experiences like that or tips they can share?"

Yes. A great friend (who coincidentally owned the "sister ship" to Victor Grahn's 120) experienced a loss-of-control with his "new" 120 a few years back. After a very good "breezy" landing on KRMG's 6006' X 150' runway and taxiing to an exit, a gust "grabbed" the 120 and plane, pilot and passenger exited in an instant! He recalled having the stick full back, using ailerons to keep wings down and dancing on the rudders for control. Unfortunately, the runway had recently been resurfaced and had almost a 1' drop off, so you can imagine the damage...the passenger hopped out "carrying" the detached door . ...no injuries (except to pride) and that beautiful 120 was repaired very well and flies today. Those who say you can't trust a taildragger (especially ours with the "boing bouncy gear"?;-) 'til it's either tied down or in the hangar usually speak from knowledge...or experience, or both. Mac

[8233]

That's the kind of stories I've read about. When your speed is so slow like it is during taxi, there is only so much you can do because the controls are just less effective. Draco's owner is another example. Although not a 120/140, it's the same idea that controls are only so effective and there are limits beyond what you have to consider just to land. In his case, he lost it during take off. He is very up front in his follow up video about his lessons learned. It's worth a watch.