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Whats the difference?
I sure wouldn't want to taxi up and get ramped in a P210 without it.
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I believe you are incorrect. The reg specifically states that it is not all pressurized aircraft but "pressurised aircraft capable of operating at high altitudes". In 61.31(g)(1) it specifically defines what they are talking about..."(1) Except as provided in paragraph (g)(3) of this section, no person may act as PIC of a pressurized aircraft (an aircraft that has a service ceiling or maximum operating altitude, whichever is lower, above 25,000 feet MSL)unless that person...."
http://www.airliners.net/info/stats.main?id=148
The T210 has a service ceiling of 28,500 feet but would NOT need a high altitude endorsement since it is not pressurized.
The P210 has a service ceiling of exactly 25,000 feet so it would also NOT need a high altitude since it is not GREATER than 25,000 feet as specified in the reg.
It does not matter what you plan to fly at as well, instead the determining factor is what the aircraft is capable of.
Also, just because a DE said something that doesn't mean that he/she is right. My boss is a DE for my are and he is wrong all the time!
Don't ever tell them they are wrong though if you're on a checkride!!!
I hat the dame regs and their interpretation/ambiguity!!!!!