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Complex Airplanes

A complex airplane is one with all of the following:

  • Retractable landing gear
  • Flaps
  • A controllable pitch propeller (including airplanes with a FADEC)

To act as PIC of a complex airplane, a pilot must:

  • Receive ground and flight training in a complex airplane or simulator
  • Been found proficient in its systems and operation
  • Receive a one-time endorsement in his or her logbook
61.31(e)

High Performance Airplanes

A high performance airplane is one with an engine of more than 200 horsepower.

To act as PIC of a high performance airplane, a pilot must:

  • Receive ground and flight training in a high-performance airplane or simulator
  • Been found proficient in its systems and operation
  • Receive a one-time endorsement in his or her logbook
61.31(f)

Pressurized Airplanes

To act as PIC of a pressurized airplane (one that has a service ceiling or maximum operating altitude above 25,000'), a pilot must:

  • Receive ground training
  • Receive flight training in a pressurized aircraft or simulator
  • Been found proficient in its systems and operation, including:
    • Normal cruise above 25,000'
    • Emergency procedure for rapid decompression
    • Emergency descent procedures
  • Receive a one-time endorsement in his or her logbook
61.31(g)

Tailwheel Airplanes

To act as PIC of a tailwheel airplane a pilot must:

  • Receive flight training in a tailwheel airplane
  • Been found proficient in its operation, including:
    • Normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings
    • Wheel landings
    • Go-around procedures
  • Receive a one-time endorsement in his or her logbook
61.31(i)