Many pilots think of a logbook as a nostalgic relic — a leather-bound notebook full of scribbles. But in fact, for most pilots (especially under EASA or FAA jurisdictions), having a proper logbook (or approved digital equivalent) is not just best practice — it’s part of your regulatory responsibilities. In this article, we’ll explain why you need a logbook, which rules mandate it, and how a digital logbook (like Wilco Pilot Logbook for iOS) can simplify compliance.
How to Fill in Your Pilot Logbook Correctly (EASA Rules Explained)
Every pilot knows that a logbook is important, but many underestimate just how crucial it is to fill it in correctly. Under EASA regulations, a properly maintained logbook is not optional. It is a legal obligation that directly affects your license, your career, and even your ability to prove your flight experience during checks or job applications.
In this article we will look at the official requirements for pilot logbooks under the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), highlight common mistakes, and explain how using a digital logbook can make compliance much easier.
Why pilots are required to keep a logbook
A pilot logbook is more than just a diary of your flights. It is your official record of training, qualifications, and flying experience. Without it, you cannot demonstrate compliance with minimum flight hours for new ratings, instrument proficiency, or license renewal. In EASA states, inspectors or examiners are entitled to review your logbook at any time. If the logbook is incomplete or inconsistent, you may face delays, additional checks, or even rejection of an application.
What EASA requires your logbook to include
The official requirements are set out in AMC1 FCL.050 – Recording of Flight Time, which forms part of the Acceptable Means of Compliance to Regulation (EU) No 1178/2011. This is the rulebook that governs all European pilot training and licensing. Below is an excerpt from the regulation that shows exactly what information must be recorded:
(a) The record of the flights flown should contain at least the following information:
(1) personal details: name(s) and address of the pilot;
(2) for each flight:
(i) name(s) of PIC;
(ii) date of flight;
(iii) place and time of departure and arrival;
(iv) type, including make, model and variant, and registration of the aircraft;
(v) indication if the aircraft is SE or ME, if applicable;
(vi) total time of flight;
(vii) accumulated total time of flight.
(3) for each FSTD session, if applicable:
(i) type and qualification number of the training device;
(ii) FSTD instruction;
(iii) date;
(iv) total time of session;
(v) accumulated total time.
(4) details on pilot function, namely PIC, including solo, SPIC and PICUS time, co-pilot, dual, FI or FE;
(5) operational conditions, namely if the operation takes place at night, or is conducted under instrument flight rules.
(b) Logging of time:
(1) PIC flight time:
(i) the holder of a licence may log as PIC time all of the flight time during which he or she is the PIC;
(ii) the applicant for, or holder of, a pilot licence may log as PIC time all solo flight time, flight time as SPIC and flight time under supervision provided that such SPIC time and flight time under supervision are countersigned by the instructor;
(iv) the holder of an examiner’s certificate may log as PIC all flight time during which he or she occupies a pilot’s seat and acts as an examiner in an aircraft;
(v) a co-pilot acting as PICUS may log as PIC all flight time during which he or she acts as PICUS, provided that such PICUS time is countersigned by the PIC;
(vi) if the holder of a pilot licence carries out a number of flights upon the same day returning on each occasion to the same place of departure and the interval between successive flights does not exceed 30 minutes, such series of flights may be recorded as a single entry.
This excerpt shows just how detailed the requirements are. Your logbook is not simply a list of hours. It must clearly show your role in each flight, the conditions of the flight, and in some cases, it requires signatures or countersignatures to validate the entry.
Common mistakes pilots make in their logbooks
Even experienced pilots often make mistakes when completing their logbooks. The most common include:
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Incomplete fields – missing aircraft registration, times, or role.
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Delayed entries – filling in flights days later, leading to errors.
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Missing signatures – especially for PICUS or dual instruction time.
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Poor legibility – handwritten logbooks that are hard to read during an inspection.
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Incorrect use of PIC and dual – confusing who can log Pilot in Command time under supervision.
These mistakes can cause serious issues during an audit or a license renewal.
Why a digital pilot logbook is the best solution
While paper logbooks remain acceptable, they are prone to human error, damage, and loss. A digital pilot logbook offers several advantages:
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Compliance – structured fields ensure you never miss required data.
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Automatic totals – your PIC, cross-country, instrument, and night time are calculated instantly.
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Endorsements and signatures – digital countersignatures for PICUS or training flights.
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Secure backups – no risk of losing your flight history in case of damage or theft.
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Audit-ready exports – generate reports in the exact format examiners expect.
For modern pilots, switching to a digital logbook is not just about convenience. It is the best way to remain compliant, organized, and ready for audits, checks, or job applications.
Conclusion
Under EASA rules, keeping a correct pilot logbook is not optional. It is a legal requirement that directly impacts your license, your training, and your career opportunities. By understanding AMC1 FCL.050 and making sure your logbook includes all the required details, you protect yourself from delays, mistakes, and regulatory issues.
The easiest way to achieve this is by using a professional digital pilot logbook such as Wilco. It ensures compliance, reduces errors, and gives you peace of mind every time an examiner or inspector asks to review your records.