Complex Airplane Endorsement Exam

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

Complex Airplane Endorsement Exam

A **Complex Airplane Endorsement** is required for pilots who wish to act as pilot-in-command (PIC) in a complex airplane. A complex airplane is defined as one with:

1. **Retractable landing gear**,

2. **Flaps**, and

3. A **controllable-pitch propeller** (or an equivalent engine control system, like FADEC).

The endorsement includes ground training, flight instruction, and usually a proficiency check. While there is no standardized "Complex Airplane Exam," instructors may test your knowledge before signing you off for the endorsement. Below is an outline of topics typically covered:

Ground Knowledge

1. Aircraft Systems

- Landing gear operation (retraction/extension, emergency systems)

- Propeller systems (fixed-pitch vs. constant-speed, propeller governor, blade angle)

- Flap systems and operation

- Electrical systems (relevant to complex airplanes)

- Engine and fuel management systems

2. **Performance and Limitations**

- V-speeds: Vlo, Vle, and others specific to the aircraft

- Takeoff, landing, and go-around performance with retractable gear

- Weight and balance considerations

3. **Emergency Procedures**

- Manual gear extension procedures

- Failure of propeller systems

- Engine-out procedures in a complex airplane

4. **Operating Procedures**

- Proper use of landing gear (avoiding gear-up landings)

- Transitioning to a controllable-pitch propeller

- Effect of flaps and gear on performance and handling

Flight Training

Your instructor will typically test the following:

1. **Takeoffs and Landings**

- Normal, short-field, and soft-field procedures using retractable gear

2. **Flight Maneuvers**

- Slow flight, stalls, and steep turns while managing complex systems

- Proper use of propeller controls (e.g., setting RPM)

3. **Emergency Scenarios**

- Simulated landing gear failure

- Simulated engine failure with gear and flaps considerations

4. **System Management**

- Demonstrating correct sequencing for gear, flaps, and propeller adjustment during different phases of flight

---

Sample Exam Questions

Here are some sample questions to test your understanding:

1. **What is the primary purpose of the propeller governor in a constant-speed propeller system?**

2. **What are Vlo and Vle, and why are they important in complex aircraft?**

3. **Explain the manual extension procedure for the landing gear.**

4. **What happens to drag and performance when the landing gear is extended during flight?**

---

Endorsement Requirement

Once you demonstrate proficiency, your instructor will log the endorsement in your logbook. According to **14 CFR 61.31(e)**, this is necessary to act as PIC in a complex airplane.

Let me know if you'd like detailed explanations of any topics!

CLICK 👉 Private Pilot License (PPL) Written Exam

CLICK 👉 PPL Practical Exam (Checkride)

CLICK 👉 Basic Aerodynamics Exam

CLICK 👉 Aviation Weather and Meteorology Exam

CLICK 👉 Radio Telephony License (R/T) Exam

CLICK 👉 Navigation for PPL Exam

CLICK 👉 Aircraft Performance and Limitations Exam

CLICK 👉 Aviation Law and Regulations for PPL

CLICK 👉 Basic Flight Planning Exam

CLICK 👉 VFR Communications Exam

CLICK 👉 Night Rating Exam