When must a recreational pilot carry their logbook containing the required endorsements?

A recreational pilot must carry their logbook containing the required endorsements when operating an aircraft in a category or class of aircraft for which they are not rated. This is important because an endorsement in the logbook demonstrates that the pilot has received the necessary training and authorization to operate specific aircraft types. The Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) require pilots to have proper training and endorsements to ensure safety and proficiency when flying.

In particular, if a recreational pilot attempts to operate an aircraft that is outside their qualifications or without the necessary endorsements, they would be violating the regulations and risking safety, as they might not be adequately prepared to handle the aircraft. Therefore, carrying the logbook serves as proof of compliance and ensures that the pilot can demonstrate their qualifications if needed.

Other scenarios presented, such as carrying passengers between sunset and sunrise or flying within 50 nautical miles of their training airport, do not inherently require the presence of logbooks since they pertain to operational limits rather than pilot qualifications regarding endorsements. Similarly, operating an aircraft for hire has different regulatory requirements and does not specifically necessitate the carrying of a logbook for personal endorsements.