Other-than-complex motor-powered aircraft

Article 6(4a) of the Air Operations Regulation allows cost-shared flights only "with other-than-complex motor-powered aeroplanes and helicopters". CAP 1590 (guidance), para 33 explains what "complex" means:

A ‘complex motor-powered aircraft’ means:

i) An aeroplane: With a maximum certificated take-off mass exceeding 5,700 kg; or Certificated for a maximum passenger seating configuration of more than 19; or Certificated for operation with a minimum crew of at least two pilots; or Equipped with (a) a turbojet engine(s) or more than one turboprop engine; or

ii) A helicopter certificated: For a maximum take-off mass exceeding 3,175 kg; or For a maximum passenger seating configuration of more than 9; or For operation with a minimum crew of at least two pilots; or

iii) A tilt rotor aircraft.

Para 34 adds that "other-than complex motor-powered aircraft" "should be construed accordingly": anything motor-powered that doesn't meet those tests. That covers almost every single-engine piston aeroplane, TMG and light piston helicopter used for private flying.

Sailplanes and balloons are handled separately. CAP 1590 para 10 points to "Article 3(2)(a) of the respective UK Sailplane/Balloon Regulations for cost-shared operations in these aircraft types."

The six-person limit means the size question rarely arises in practice, but a twin turboprop, for example, would be complex and fall outside the cost sharing derogation.