What type of endorsement is required for a solo flight?

For a solo flight, a student pilot must have an endorsement that covers the specific make and model of the aircraft they intend to fly. This endorsement confirms that the flight instructor has evaluated the student's skills and determined that they are competent to operate that particular aircraft solo. It also ensures that the instructor has considered the specific performance characteristics and operational limitations of the aircraft.

While a general solo flight endorsement may indicate that the student is authorized to fly solo, it does not address the unique aspects of each aircraft. Similarly, while the instructor's signature may be part of the endorsement process, it is the specific make and model endorsement that provides the necessary assurance of the student's readiness for solo flight in that aircraft. A logbook entry by the student alone would not constitute the necessary official endorsement for solo flight.

Therefore, the emphasis on an endorsement for a specific aircraft model is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with federal regulations governing solo operations.