Complex Endorsement

A complex endorsement (FAA) is not a specific aircraft checkout; rather is an endorsement from a CFI to a pilot that demonstrates he/she knows and understands the procedures for operating a complex aircraft.  A complex aircraft is defined as an aircraft that has a controllable pitch propeller, retractable landing gear, and flaps.  There is no minimum flight time requirement; it is based on the performance of the pilot and agreement of the CFI that the pilot can safely operate the aircraft.

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FAR 61.31 (e)

(e) Additional training required for operating complex airplanes. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (e)(2) of this section, no person may act as pilot in command of a complex airplane (an airplane that has a retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller; or, in the case of a seaplane, flaps and a controllable pitch propeller), unless the person has --

(i) Received and logged ground and flight training from an authorized instructor in a complex airplane, or in a flight simulator or flight training device that is representative of a complex airplane, and has been found proficient in the operation and systems of the airplane; and

(ii) Received a one-time endorsement in the pilot's logbook from an authorized instructor who certifies the person is proficient to operate a complex airplane.

(2) The training and endorsement required by paragraph (e)(1) of this section is not required if the person has logged flight time as pilot in command of a complex airplane, or in a flight simulator or flight training device that is representative of a complex airplane prior to August 4, 1997.