Complex Airplane Endorsement Lesson Plan
Special Cases • 14 CFR 61.31(e)
The Complex Airplane Endorsement Lesson Plan develops the ground and flight proficiency required to operate a complex airplane safely under 14 CFR 61.31(e).
Introduction
Schedule
Topic:Time:Ground Training:1:00Flight Training:1:30Postflight and Endorsement:0:15Planned Time:0:00Attention Getter:
- Ask the pilot to explain how one missed configuration item can create a gear-up landing, propeller overspeed, or loss of performance.
Motivator:
- Complex-airplane proficiency replaces memorized switch movement with disciplined configuration management in every phase of flight.
Objective:
- Develop and evaluate the knowledge and flight proficiency required for the complex-airplane logbook endorsement.
Materials
Required Materials:
- Pilot and aircraft documents, pilot operating handbook, checklist, and manufacturer performance data.
- A complex airplane appropriate to the endorsement sought.
References:
Instructor Actions
Ground Training:
- Review complex-airplane systems, limitations, normal and emergency landing-gear operation, propeller operation, flaps, cowl flaps, and performance.
- Teach configuration planning, checklist discipline, energy management, and common failure modes.
Flight Training:
- Demonstrate and practice normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures throughout representative takeoffs, climbs, cruise, descents, approaches, go-arounds, and landings.
- Require positive verification of configuration changes and effective use of manufacturer checklists.
Postflight:
- Debrief errors and risk controls. Issue the endorsement only after satisfactory ground and flight proficiency is demonstrated.
Student Actions
- Explain aircraft systems, limitations, and emergency procedures.
- Plan and fly representative operations using disciplined configuration and checklist management.
- Correctly manage landing gear, propeller, flaps, and related systems without instructor assistance.
Completion Standards
- The pilot demonstrates the knowledge and flight proficiency required by §61.31(e).
- Aircraft control, configuration, checklist use, and emergency responses remain safe and within manufacturer limitations.
Conclusion
Re-Motivation:
- The endorsement marks demonstrated proficiency, while continued practice preserves the habits that prevent configuration accidents.
Closure:
- Review aircraft-specific limitations, recurrent practice needs, and the applicable AC 61-65K endorsement.