What action applies to the nose wheel steering when the aircraft is airborne?

When the aircraft is airborne, nose wheel steering is automatically centered. This is an important aspect of aircraft design, ensuring that once the aircraft leaves the ground, the nose wheel does not influence the direction of the aircraft, allowing for controlled flight. Centering the nose wheel steering prevents unwanted yaw during takeoff and climb, which could affect stability and control.

In contrast, when the aircraft is on the ground, the nose wheel steering system can be actively used by the pilots to maneuver the aircraft. However, once airborne, it is critical for the steering to revert to a neutral position, as the primary control of direction is taken over by the ailerons and rudder. This design helps maintain aerodynamic efficiency and proper flight dynamics.