8
$\begingroup$

Requirements for 'complex' airplane seem to vary between regulators and between pilots, so let's have this settled once and for all.

What is the definition of a 'complex' airplane as defined by FAA and EASA?

$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

13
$\begingroup$

For the FAA, a "complex aeroplane" must have:

  • A retractable gear (not necessary for a seaplane);
  • In-flight adjustable flaps; and
  • A controllable pitch propeller.

The FAA's definition is given in 14 CFR 61.1:

Complex airplane means an airplane that has a retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, including airplanes equipped with an engine control system consisting of a digital computer and associated accessories for controlling the engine and propeller, such as a full authority digital engine control; or, in the case of a seaplane, flaps and a controllable pitch propeller, including seaplanes equipped with an engine control system consisting of a digital computer and associated accessories for controlling the engine and propeller, such as a full authority digital engine control.

However, the EASA has a different definition of a "complex motor-powered aircraft" that is an airplane, which is considerably more "complex":

an aeroplane:

  • with a maximum certificated take-off mass exceeding 5 700 kg, or
  • certificated for a maximum passenger seating configuration of more than nineteen, or
  • certificated for operation with a minimum crew of at least two pilots, or
  • equipped with (a) turbojet engine(s) or more than one turboprop engine

Note that 5700kg is about 12567 pounds.

$\endgroup$
1
  • 2
    $\begingroup$ Could you add the EASA definition aswell, europeans have a pretty different ideea what a complex is : caa.co.uk/… $\endgroup$
    – Radu094
    Jan 23, 2014 at 9:42

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .