high performance endorsement
A training endorsement that allows you to act as pilot in command of high-performance aircraft with more than 200 horsepower. It builds on your existing pilot skills and focuses on understanding aircraft systems, performance, and handling, giving you the ability to safely operate more powerful airplanes for personal flying.
Last updated: April 2026 | Reference: 14 CFR §61.31(f)
What is a high performance endorsement?
A high-performance endorsement is an FAA-required logbook endorsement that allows a pilot to act as pilot in command of an aircraft with more than 200 horsepower.
It’s not a certificate or rating, just an authorization given by a certified instructor after training and a proficiency check.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements to get a high-performance endorsement?
To act as pilot in command of a high-performance airplane, students must complete FAA-required ground and flight training in an aircraft with more than 200 horsepower and demonstrate proficiency to an authorized instructor. Prior to training, students must hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate, meet English proficiency requirements, and be able to safely operate the aircraft systems and performance characteristics. Once training is complete, an instructor provides a one-time logbook endorsement certifying proficiency. No written exam or checkride is required.
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To act as pilot in command of a high-performance aircraft, a pilot must meet the requirements under 14 CFR §61.31.
Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate
Receive ground and flight training in a high-performance aircraft (more than 200 horsepower)
Demonstrate proficiency to an authorized instructor in aircraft systems, performance, and handling
Receive a logbook endorsement from a certified instructor verifying competency
No written exam or FAA checkride is required, only training and instructor endorsement.
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At a minimum, this training includes:
Ground instruction on high-performance aircraft systems, performance, and limitations
Flight training in a high-performance airplane covering normal and emergency operations
Instruction on energy management, higher-speed operations, and engine management
Demonstrated proficiency to an authorized instructor
A logbook endorsement from the instructor certifying competency
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According to federal regulations under 14 CFR §61.31, there are no specific FAA medical certificate requirements to receive a high-performance endorsement.
However, to act as pilot in command of any aircraft (including high-performance airplanes), a pilot must:
Hold at least a valid FAA Medical Certificate appropriate to their certificate level
Meet the medical standards required for their pilot certificate (Private Pilot or higher)
Be medically fit to safely operate the aircraft at the time of flight