Wheel-barrowing
Wheelbarrowing is an undesired condition in tricycle-gear aircraft in which an excessive amount of weight is carried by the nosewheel rather than the main landing gear. The term is derived from the way a wheelbarrow supports most of its load on a single wheel. In aviation, this situation can reduce directional control, increase structural stress, and in severe cases cause runway excursions or accidents.
Occurrence
During normal operation, the main landing gear is designed to carry most of the airplane’s weight, while the nosewheel provides limited steering capability. Wheelbarrowing occurs when the nosewheel is forced to support too much of the load, usually due to excessive speed, improper pitch attitude, or a forward center of gravity. When this happens, the main wheels may lose traction with the runway, reducing braking effectiveness and steering control.Wheelbarrowing can occur both on takeoff and landing. On takeoff, it may happen if the pilot maintains forward pressure on the control yoke, keeping the nosewheel pressed firmly against the runway and delaying rotation. On landing, it is more common when the airplane touches down nosewheel-first or when the pilot lowers the nose abruptly while the aircraft is still traveling at high speed. Both situations increase the chance of skidding, loss of control, or damage to the nose gear and propeller.