The Piper Cub is a venerable and durable aircraft that has arguably been the training platform for more pilots than any other single aircraft in history. A simple, yet fun-to-fly aircraft, it requires appropriate training to fly, but can be effectively managed and piloted by nearly anyone. The two-seat aircraft is available in a variety of configurations with differences of engines, features, and models. Across the breadth of configurations and models, the Piper Cub is an aircraft that most will agree is a pleasure to fly.
Receive training. A pilot must first get trained to fly a Piper Cub. A pilot can begin initial training in a Cub or can transition to a Cub from other aircraft types. In either case, they must learn about the aircraft and its limitations and capabilities. This training should be obtained from an FAA-certificated flight instructor who is familiar with the Piper Cub make and model of aircraft.
Preflight the aircraft. Part of the training will be instruction on the proper methodology to check the aircraft to verify its fitness for flight. This will include checking fuel, oil, flight control systems and other components of the aircraft.
Start the aircraft. Starting the aircraft will be completed with the aid of a “startup checklist,” and will include items such as turning on the fuel supply, turning the magnetos on, engaging the aircraft’s electrical system (if one is present) and starting with the electric starter (or by having another pilot start the aircraft by manually throwing the propeller).
Taxi into position and conduct a preflight run-up of the engine. Once the aircraft is started, the pilot can taxi to his intended runway of takeoff, and then should conduct a pre-takeoff engine and systems check. Most of the time, this is conducted with the aid of a checklist.
Take off and fly. With the preflight checks completed, the pilot can now take off. Most Piper Cubs will take off and climb at between 55 and 65 miles per hour. Once the pilot has lined up with the runway, she will apply full throttle and allow the aircraft to roll forward, gaining speed until reaching takeoff airspeed. At roughly 55 to 65 miles per hour, the pilot will apply back pressure on the control stick, and climb the aircraft at around 60 miles per hour to the intended cruising altitude. Cruise speeds will vary based on model and engine size.
Land. When ready to land, the pilot will reduce engine power and begin a glide to landing. The approach speed for the Piper Cub will be similar to the climb speed used in takeoff, roughly 60 to 65 miles per hour. When the aircraft is 15 feet or so above the intended landing area, the pilot will level off, allowing more airspeed to bleed off as the aircraft continues to slowly settle down. When the aircraft is a couple of feet above the ground, the pilot will slowly pull back on the control stick until airspeed is bled off to the point where the aircraft no longer maintains lift. At this point, it will settle onto the ground for the final landing.
Get tailwheel-specific training. The Piper Cub is a traditional aircraft that has two main gear up front and a rear tailwheel in the back. Most modern aircraft are considered tricycle gear aircraft (with one gear up front on the nose and two main gear under the wings). The two types of aircraft perform differently, and pilots are advised to get specialized training prior to flying tailwheel-equipped aircraft (including the Piper Cub). Pilots are required to have an endorsement of competency from an FAA-certificated flight instructor demonstrating proficiency in tailwheel-equipped aircraft.
