03 Taxiing

The purpose of this briefing is to consider the effects of the environment on the ground handling of a gyroplane.

These environmental factors include:

• surface type
• slope
• wind
• rotor and propeller clearance
• other traffic
• propeller slipstream
• seat and pedal adjustment
• windscreen and visor cleanliness
• inertia and speed judgement
• blind spots
• aerodrome layout
• instrument checks
• Air Traffic Control (ATC) clearances, where applicable
• right-of-way rules, and
• aerodrome signs and markings.

Taxiing is usually introduced during the first lesson, Effects of Controls, but these considerations are typically reinforced across subsequent lessons leading up to first solo.

It is the instructor’s responsibility to ensure the student is fully aware of, and able to apply, these considerations before recommending them for first solo.

If a student has limited experience or exposure to operating machinery, a dedicated gyroplane ground handling and taxiing lesson may be appropriate.