What defines a high-performance airplane?

A high-performance airplane is defined primarily by its engine power exceeding 200 horsepower. This classification is significant because it often necessitates additional training and endorsements for pilots operating such aircraft. The increased power affects how the airplane is controlled, influenced by factors such as performance characteristics during takeoff, climb, and maneuvering.

In addition to engine power, many high-performance airplanes may also have features such as retractable landing gear or other advanced systems, but the key distinguishing factor for high-performance qualification is the significant engine output. This higher power level typically results in faster speeds and generally requires pilots to have a deeper understanding of flight dynamics and operating procedures.

While other characteristics, such as landing gear configuration or engine type, might be seen in various aircraft, they do not specifically define a high-performance airplane. Therefore, engine power exceeding 200 horsepower is the primary criterion that sets high-performance airplanes apart from other aircraft categories.