soaringpilot2 wrote:
I've got what may be a dumb question (since I suspect the answer is
obvious), but here it goes:

If I am looking at buying an experimental homebuilt with a retractable
conventional gear; BUT under 200hp and a fixed pitch prop, do I need a
complex endorsement to legally fly, or is that just with regards to
aircraft with standard airworthiness certificates (factory built)?

I'm having an argument on FAR trivia, and was curious what people
thought.

Cheers!
Ryan in Madison


Retractable gear, by itself, does not a complex aircraft make. You must
have flaps, retractable gear AND an adjustable prop to have a complex
landplane.

The answer to that question is no.

The answer to the other question, does this complex endorsement apply to
standard certificates?

I cannot speak with authority, but i've been led to believe if you are
flying solo, you dont have to have category, class or endorsements
pertinent to the experimental airframe. In the past few years I believe
the Feds wanted folks carrying passengers in experimentals to have
category and class ratings and applicable endorsements..

I'm sure if im mistaken, the corrections will be quick and merciless :P

Dave