FAA Rolls Out “All Makes and Models” Policy for High-Power Piston Warbird Pilots

As mandated by Section 806 of the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act, the FAA has updated its guidance on authorizations to fly high-power piston warbirds to give certain experienced pilots an easier path to add type-specific privileges.

Previously, pilots of high-performance piston warbirds with more than 800 total horsepower and a VNE greater than 250 knots were always required to obtain an Authorized Experimental Aircraft (AEA) authorization, which is analogous to a type rating for an experimental aircraft. Like a type rating, this authorization required specialized training and testing, usually from a specialty aircraft examiner (SAE). Now, if an individual has three or more AEAs, they may be authorized to fly additional aircraft with a logbook endorsement after completing specialized training and testing from an authorized instructor.

This new policy is the result of FAA Reauthorization language championed by Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The intent of the language was a return to the “All Makes and Models” designation that used to be available for highly experienced warbird pilots. “…the FAA has now streamlined this process and made it easier for experienced pilots to operate multiple types of aircraft without all the red tape,” Rep. Graves said in a statement accompanying the FAA’s announcement of the policy. “This commonsense change will reduce costs for the agency and allow more pilots to enjoy their freedom to fly.”

The new policy is effective immediately, and further details can be found on the Federal Register.