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Using Multi Engine time as complex requirement for single commercial

Asked by: 2877 views Commercial Pilot

After looking at the practical test standards for commercial pilot it specifies one must have 10 hrs in a complex aircraft as well as the instruction. I am currently a SEL MEL and Instrument private pilot. Can I use my multi engine experience (250 hrs) as my 10hr complex time for a single engine commercial or does the time have to be logged in a single engine complex airplane? Also could I use my dual multi engine time (gained while training for multi checkride) as my 10hrs dual instruction? I’m trying to figure out if I need to log 10hrs dual in a complex single or if the multi time counts. Thanks 

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1 Answers



  1. Matt J Adams on Jan 27, 2019

    Before I answer I’ll just say I’m a new CFI and anyone’s input with more experience may provide more insight.

    According to 61.129(a)(3)(ii) – it only says 10 hours of training in a complex “airplane” it doesn’t specify as to single engine or multi engine. (I don’t think the number of engines is what they are concerned about) It also states the 10 hours could be done in a TAA aircraft (refer to 61.129(J)). So the short answer to your question is yes.

    As for the second question you asked, 61.129(a)(3) states “20 hours of training” not 10. I would also point out it depends how your instructor logged it because it specifically says for single engine areas of operation are 61.127(b)(1). For multi engine training your instructor may have logged it as 61.127(b)(2). Now if in your remarks section it just says something like “chandelles, steep turns, lazy eights… etc.” then I would say you could probably count it towards the 20 hours of training required.

    I hope this helps.

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