All - I'm looking to get my tailwheel endorsement in the Austin area. Does anyone know of any schools or CFI's with a taildragger to get this accomplished within 30 min drive of Austin? (off-peak traffic times )
Aaron Dabney, http://www.masterthetailwheel.com/ And don't sweat that he's up in Waco.... most instructors I know of are willing to make a short flight to link up with you.
Agree, just stating what he originally said! That would add a lot of expense going from Austin to Waco and back though.
Go to Texas State Aviation in San Marcos. They have a Citabria with an upgraded engine and two very good tailwheel instructors (George and Erik, the owner).
All, the best tailwheel instruction is at ProMark Aviation in Burnet, KBMQ. Tres Clinton is an awesome instructor and the school has a Super Cub for instruction. https://www.promarkaviation.net/tailwheel-training/tailwheel-courses/
I've heard good things about George in San Marcos. I know Tres, did a photo shoot with him, and he's a great pilot. If the OP still wants someone within a 30 minute drive, depending on what part of Austin he's in, San Marcos may work. Burnett, Waco, & Temple won't.