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3 Answers

Add single engine land to commercial multi-engine land instrument license

Asked by: 3073 views Commercial Pilot

I am a prior Air Force pilot.  I haven't flown at all in 13 years.  I do have a commercial multi-engine land, instrument license issued in 1997.  What do I need to do, or add, to my license to be able to fly a complex single-engine recreationally?

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3 Answers



  1. KDS on Aug 09, 2018

    Start by getting a good understanding of the words “class” and “category”. Then go through he aeronautical experience section of the regulations for Airplane Single-Engine Land. There will be very little additional that you will need.

    You won’t need a knowledge test (written test).

    You will need a CFI’s endorsement to take the practical test (check ride).

    I don’t think you’ll need a complex endorsement, but it will be easy to add that during whatever dual you get, just to be safe.

    I believe you will need a flight review (BFR) to take the test, however, whether you do or don’t, just like the complex endorsement, you can get one just to be safe in the process of the dual instruction you’ll receive in preparation for the practical test.

    You’ll need a current medical.

    Take a look in the Private or Commercial ACS depending on which way you go and look at the rating table. That lists the tasks that you MUST demonstrate during the practical test. The examiner CAN test on any task of their choosing in addition to those, but very few examiners would test more than the minimum requirement.

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  2. Tim on Aug 10, 2018

    Thank you KDS! I really appreciate your time in answering my question!

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  3. KDS on Aug 10, 2018

    Happy to help. You’ll be right in the mix with a lot of guys who went straight from the military to the airlines. They will have ATP’s for multiengine and a couple type ratings and then private pilot privileges for single-engine.

    You just need to look around for a flight instructor who communicates well with you and work out the details.

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