Piper Arrow in Flight

Complex Endorsement

The CFI is the bottom line for a complex endorsement.

No minimums — demonstrated proficiency

My Approach

  • Ensure you have a working (ideally thorough) understanding of manifold pressure, prop governor, and retractable gear systems
  • Demonstrate comfort and fluidity in rapid operation of propeller, manifold pressure, gear and flaps in pattern and (if applicable) instrument approach work
  • We develop the itinerary and goals for the flight portion together
  • Meet any requirements for your insurance purposes (this is non-regulatory, but practical)
  • I recommend completing a flight review or WINGS phase as part of this since you're demonstrating the requirements of FAR 61.56.

Tips to Save Time and Money

  • Completely understand the POH/AFM for performance, weight/balance, emergency procedures
  • Using Airplane Flying Handbook and your POH (even better is the maintenance manual), understand how manifold pressure sensing, prop governor, and retractable gear system works.
  • "Chair Fly" pattern work, instrument approach and maneuvers either before or between lessons to incorporate gear, manifold pressure, and prop control.
Upgraded Arrow Panel

Advanced Avionics Mastery

You should be the master of the avionics in your aircaft

This can be self-study or with CFI(I) assistance

  • Be able to perform all FAA-expected functionality of your GPS/RNAV system.
  • Understand all modes/features of your autopilot.
  • Know how to use all aspects of your engine management system.

I recommend looking at my GPS proficiency page for practice and ideas.

I'd be glad to fly or do ground school with appropriate hands-on simulation (at reduced instructional rates).

LAX Overflight

Advanced ATC Communications

Make the most use of your pilot's certificate!

If you avoid airspace (fly longer) because of communications discomfort, let's fix that

  • Controllers are very helpful when you sound confident and straightforward
  • ATC (in most cases) prefers you communicate in busy areas so they can work other traffic with/around you

Contact a CFI to work this area — plan a challenging flight and make yourself comfortable!

Chandelle Maneuver

Proficiency Building and Pilot Challenges

There's always something to learn, improve, and work on

Consider:

  • Spot landings every time
  • Power off landings from the pattern as habit
  • Mastery of performane envelope (best angle & best rate takeoffs, etc)
  • Mastery and comfort with slow flight and stalls
  • Advanced maneuvers and airwork

Any proficiency work you do with an instructor can count towards the flight review requirement in the FAA Wings Program!