Plain English Meaning
An airplane with an engine bigger than 200 horsepower. Pilots need extra training and a sign-off from an instructor before they can fly one as pilot in command.
Full Definition
Airplanes defined by the FAA as having an engine of more than 200 horsepower. Under 14 CFR 61.31, a pilot must receive specific ground and flight training and a one-time logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor before acting as pilot in command of a high-performance airplane.
Context Anchor
Seen in training plans, aircraft checkout requirements, and discussions of what airplanes a pilot is legally qualified to fly.
Why Pilots Care
Operating these aircraft without the required is illegal and unsafe; the extra training ensures can manage higher , , and complexity.