Register

Five Taildraggers That Are Easy To Buy, Fly, and Insure

The lower values of some vintage models is a good thing for buyers.

Cessna 170B [Shutterstock]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Tailwheel aircraft offer pilots unique freedom, capable of operating from diverse, often off-airport, locations, despite a past period of declining popularity.
  • Their recent resurgence is significantly driven by a renewed appreciation among younger pilots for classic, affordable vintage models, alongside the introduction of new Light Sport Aircraft.
  • Many vintage taildraggers, such as the Piper J-3 Cub and Cessna 170, are gaining popularity due to their accessibility, reasonable purchase prices, manageable insurance costs, and straightforward operation.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Many of us were drawn to small aircraft because of the freedom they represent. As private pilots, we can fly almost whenever we want to, weather permitting, and access airports in interesting locations that are too small or out-of-the-way for airline service.

Tailwheel aircraft arguably are the fullest expression of that freedom because they often don’t need airports at all. A field, dirt path, or gravel bar in the middle of a river will do. While off-airport exploration is possible in tricycle-gear airplanes, the endeavor usually works out better with a tailwheel.  

Jonathan Welsh

Jonathan Welsh is Lead Editor of Aviation Consumer and a private pilot who worked as a reporter, editor and columnist with the Wall Street Journal for 21 years, mostly covering the auto industry. His passion for aviation began in childhood with balsa-wood gliders his aunt would buy for him at the corner store. Follow Jonathan on Twitter @JonathanWelsh4

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE