A type rating is an additional certification required to operate a specific aircraft type. For professional pilots, it marks an essential milestone on the path from initial training to airline operations, and it remains important throughout their career as they transition to more advanced aircraft.
What is a Type Rating?
A type rating is a regulatory endorsement that authorizes a pilot to act as pilot-in-command or co-pilot of a particular aircraft type. It confirms that the pilot has completed specialized training and demonstrated proficiency in the systems, procedures, and handling characteristics of that aircraft.
When is a Type Rating Required?
Under both EASA and FAA regulations, type ratings are required for all turbojet aircraft, for aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight above 5,700 kg, and for any aircraft explicitly identified by the authority as requiring dedicated training. In practice, nearly all commercial aircraft fall into this category, including the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families, Boeing 777, Airbus A350, and the Embraer E-Jet series.
Type Rating Process
1. Prerequisites
Before beginning a type rating course, pilots must hold a valid CPL or ATPL, along with MCC, IR, and ME qualifications. A current medical certificate and sufficient flight experience are also required, with exact thresholds depending on authority and aircraft type.
2. Training Components
Ground School
Ground school typically lasts between two and six weeks. During this phase, pilots study aircraft systems, normal and abnormal operating procedures, performance and limitations, and any relevant operational regulations. Theoretical knowledge is assessed through written examinations.
Simulator Training
Pilots then progress to full-flight simulator sessions, usually totaling 30–60 hours. These sessions cover normal operations as well as abnormal and emergency scenarios, complex instrument procedures, upset recovery, and multi-crew coordination. The simulator phase concludes with a series of check rides conducted by an examiner.
Base and Line Training
After the type rating itself is complete, newly employed pilots move on to base or line training, where they fly the aircraft under supervision. This phase ends with a line check that verifies operational readiness.
3. Assessment and Certification
The final assessment combines theoretical examinations, simulator evaluations, and a formal skill test with an approved examiner. Upon successful completion, the type rating is added to the pilot’s license.
Who Pays for Type Ratings?
Airline-Sponsored Training
Most commercial pilots receive their type rating from their employer. This approach removes the financial burden, guarantees employment on completion, and ensures standardized training aligned with the airline’s procedures. In return, pilots typically commit to a multi-year service period or enter a training bond that must be repaid if they leave early.
Self-Funded Training
Some pilots choose to fund their own type rating, which generally costs between €25,000 and €40,000. While this may increase employability and offers complete flexibility in choosing a training provider, it comes with no guarantee of a job and may require additional differences training once hired.
Hybrid Models
Airlines may also offer shared-cost arrangements, deferred payment plans, or financing options to support candidates while retaining some employment commitment.
Popular Commercial Aircraft Type Ratings
Single-Aisle Jets
The Airbus A320 family [?] and Boeing 737 family [?] remain the most frequently issued type ratings worldwide, thanks to their widespread use across global fleets. Embraer E-Jets are also a common entry point for pilots joining regional airlines.
Wide-Body Aircraft
Long-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 require extensive training and are typically offered only to experienced pilots progressing from single-aisle fleets.
Type Rating Validity and Renewal
A type rating remains attached to a pilot’s license indefinitely but must be kept current. This involves regular simulator proficiency checks, line checks, and minimum recent-experience requirements. Transitioning between aircraft variants within the same family generally requires only a dedicated differences course — for example, A320 to A321 or 737NG to 737 MAX.
Multiple Type Ratings
Pilots may hold several type ratings, but each must be maintained through recurrent training. Airlines usually limit pilots to one primary aircraft type to ensure operational consistency, with additional ratings maintained only when actively used.
Strategic Considerations for Pilots
Choosing a First Type Rating
For most pilots, the first type rating is determined by their hiring airline. Those considering a self-funded route often choose the A320 or B737, as both offer broad global opportunities. Pilots aiming for regional aviation may focus on E-Jets or turboprop categories.
Career Progression
Type ratings can shape the long-term trajectory of a pilot’s career. Common paths include moving from single-aisle to wide-body fleets or transitioning from regional to mainline airlines. Cargo carriers often operate different fleets, creating additional opportunities.
International Recognition
EASA Type Ratings
EASA type ratings are accepted throughout EASA member states and in several other countries under bilateral arrangements. For work outside these regions, validation or conversion is usually required.
FAA Type Ratings
FAA type ratings are valid within the United States and in countries that recognize FAA certification. Pilots transferring to EASA operations must undergo conversion, which involves ground-school differences training, simulator assessments, and administrative processing.
Cost-Benefit Considerations
Self-funded pilots should weigh the financial risk against potential career benefits. While holding a type rating may accelerate hiring and demonstrate commitment, it provides no employment guarantee and can become costly to maintain without an active flying position. Funding a type rating is advisable only when strong job prospects or clear strategic advantages exist.
Technology and Type Ratings
Manufacturers increasingly design aircraft families with shared type ratings to simplify training. Airbus, for example, maintains a common type rating across the A320 series, while Boeing applies a similar approach across all 737 variants — though MAX aircraft require additional differences training. Emerging trends such as advanced automation, enhanced upset-recovery programs, and exploratory work on single-pilot airline operations may influence future type-rating standards.
Conclusion
A type rating represents a major professional milestone for any airline pilot. Understanding the training pathway, regulatory framework, and long-term career implications helps pilots make informed decisions — whether their rating is employer-sponsored or self-funded. The aircraft type a pilot qualifies on often shapes the early stages of their career and can influence future opportunities, fleet transitions, and geographic flexibility.
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For details on specific aircraft, see the Airbus A320 Type Rating [?] or Boeing 737 Type Rating [?] pages.