Picture this: you’ve worked hard to earn your commercial pilot license, logged countless hours building experience, and now there’s a sleek Citation jet waiting on the ramp. You’re qualified to fly it, right? Not quite. Before you can command that aircraft, you’ll need something called an aircraft type rating. It’s the specialized certification that transforms you from a general commercial pilot into a qualified operator of specific, complex aircraft.
Type ratings might sound intimidating at first, but they’re simply the FAA’s way of ensuring pilots receive proper training on the sophisticated systems and handling characteristics of larger aircraft. Whether you’re dreaming of flying corporate jets, joining an airline, or stepping up to turbine equipment, understanding the type rating process is essential. We’ve broken down everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements to checkride day, so you can plan your path forward with confidence.
What Is an Aircraft Type Rating?
An aircraft type rating is an FAA certification that authorizes you to act as pilot-in-command of a specific make and model of aircraft. According to FAR 61.31, you need a type rating for any aircraft that weighs more than 12,500 pounds or is turbojet-powered, regardless of weight. This means everything from a King Air 350 to a Boeing 787 requires its own type rating.
Unlike your basic pilot certificate, which allows you to fly a broad category of aircraft (single-engine land, for example), a type rating is aircraft-specific. Your Boeing 737 type rating won’t let you fly an Airbus A320, even though they’re similar in size and purpose. Each aircraft type has unique systems, procedures, and handling characteristics that require dedicated training.
Type ratings come in two main flavors: single-pilot and multi-crew. Single-pilot type ratings are common for smaller jets and turboprops like the Citation Mustang or Pilatus PC-12. Multi-crew type ratings, used for larger aircraft like the 737 or A320, require crew resource management training and assume you’ll always operate with another qualified pilot.
Who Actually Needs a Type Rating?
The short answer is: anyone planning to fly aircraft over 12,500 pounds or turbojet aircraft. But let’s get practical about when this becomes relevant in your career.
Commercial pilots transitioning from piston aircraft to turbine equipment will need their first type rating when moving up to aircraft like the King Air, Citation, or similar business jets. This is often the bridge between regional flying and corporate aviation. ATP holders moving into airline positions absolutely need type ratings for the specific aircraft they’ll fly, whether that’s a regional jet like the CRJ-700 or a mainline aircraft like the 737.
Military pilots transitioning to civilian careers often need civilian type ratings even if they have extensive experience on military variants of similar aircraft. The FAA requires civilian certification regardless of military flight hours. Some private pilots who own or have access to larger turbine aircraft also pursue type ratings, though this is less common.
Here’s something important to remember: many airline and corporate positions require you to hold a specific type rating before they’ll even interview you. While some companies provide type rating training, having one already can make you significantly more competitive in the job market.
Aircraft Type Rating Requirements You Need to Meet
Before you can start type rating training, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Most type ratings require at least a commercial pilot certificate, though some heavier aircraft require an ATP certificate. You’ll need an appropriate medical certificate, typically first or second class, valid for the level of operations you plan to conduct.
The FAA requires English language proficiency for all pilots seeking type ratings, as aviation communication worldwide relies on English. You’ll also need to already hold the appropriate category and class ratings. For example, you can’t get a jet type rating without first holding a multi-engine land rating.
While there’s no specific minimum flight time requirement for a type rating itself, training providers often have their own prerequisites. Many want to see at least 500 hours total time, with significant multi-engine and instrument experience. This ensures you have the foundational skills to handle the complexity of type rating training.
Age requirements depend on the certificate level. Commercial pilots must be at least 18, while ATP certificate holders must be 23 or older. If you’re planning an airline career, factor this into your timeline.
The Type Rating Training Process Step by Step
Type rating training is intensive, immersive, and highly structured. Most programs follow a similar format, starting with ground school and progressing through simulator training to the final checkride.
Ground school typically lasts one to two weeks and covers aircraft-specific systems, limitations, procedures, and performance characteristics. You’ll dive deep into hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical systems, flight controls, and avionics. Emergency procedures get special attention because you need to know exactly what to do when things go wrong at 35,000 feet. Expect to spend 40 to 60 hours in the classroom, often studying late into the evening.
After ground school comes simulator training, which is where the real magic happens. Modern Level D full-motion simulators are so realistic that the FAA allows you to complete your entire type rating without ever stepping into the actual aircraft. Your simulator training will include 20 to 40 hours spread across one to two weeks. You’ll practice normal procedures, emergency scenarios, instrument approaches, engine failures, and everything else you might encounter in real operations.
For multi-crew type ratings, crew resource management training is integrated throughout the simulator sessions. You’ll learn to communicate effectively, manage workload distribution, and operate as part of a team. Single-pilot type ratings focus more on individual decision-making and workload management.
Some type rating programs include actual aircraft training time, though this is becoming less common as simulator technology improves. Airlines often provide Initial Operating Experience in the actual aircraft after you’ve completed your type rating, which allows you to apply your new skills under supervision.
Choosing Your Type Rating Training Provider
Not all type rating schools are created equal, and your choice of training provider can significantly impact your success. The two main options are Part 142 training centers and Part 61 flight schools. Part 142 facilities like CAE, FlightSafety International, and SimCom are FAA-approved training centers with structured curriculums and state-of-the-art simulators. Part 61 schools offer more flexibility but may have fewer resources.
When evaluating training providers, consider their reputation and pass rates first. Talk to pilots who’ve trained there and check online reviews. The quality of instructors matters tremendously because type rating training is challenging, and you need someone who can explain complex concepts clearly while keeping you motivated.
Simulator technology varies between facilities. Level D simulators provide the most realistic experience with full motion and visual systems. Location matters too if you’re paying for your own training. Training in a major hub city might cost more due to higher living expenses during your training period.
Look at package options carefully. Some schools offer integrated programs that bundle ground school, simulator time, checkride fees, and study materials. Others charge à la carte, which might save money if you only need specific components. If you’re fortunate enough to have company-sponsored training, they’ll typically handle all these decisions for you.
The Real Cost of Getting Your Type Rating
Let’s talk about the investment because type ratings aren’t cheap. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to over $30,000 depending on the aircraft complexity and training provider. A King Air type rating might cost $8,000 to $12,000, while a Boeing 737 type rating can run $25,000 to $30,000 or more.
Cost factors include aircraft complexity (more sophisticated systems require more training time), simulator hourly rates (which vary dramatically by location and equipment), instructor fees, checkride examiner fees, and training materials. Ground school alone can cost several thousand dollars, while simulator time typically runs $400 to $800 per hour depending on the aircraft type.
The most expensive type ratings are for heavy jets and wide-body aircraft like the 777 or A350. These can exceed $40,000 because they require extensive training time and use the most expensive simulators. More affordable options include light jets like the Citation Mustang or turboprops like the King Air, which still open doors to excellent career opportunities.
Many pilots finance their type rating training through specialized aviation loans. Some companies offer tuition reimbursement or will sponsor your type rating if you commit to working for them for a specific period. From a return-on-investment perspective, a type rating can increase your earning potential by $20,000 to $50,000 annually or more, making it one of the best investments in your aviation career.
Conquering the Type Rating Checkride
The type rating checkride has two components: an oral examination and a practical test conducted in the simulator. The oral exam typically lasts two to four hours and covers aircraft systems, procedures, limitations, emergency procedures, and relevant regulations. Your examiner will ask scenario-based questions to ensure you truly understand the aircraft, not just memorized answers.
The simulator portion runs three to four hours and includes everything from pre-flight procedures through various normal and emergency scenarios. You’ll demonstrate normal takeoffs and landings, steep turns, slow flight, engine-out procedures, various emergency situations, and multiple instrument approaches. The examiner will throw realistic failures at you to see how you handle pressure and manage the aircraft safely.
Standards are high because you’re seeking authorization to fly sophisticated, expensive aircraft. You need to demonstrate mastery of all required maneuvers within tight tolerances while managing systems, communicating effectively, and maintaining situational awareness. One thing that catches pilots off guard is how quickly things happen in the simulator. Time compression is real, and you need to stay ahead of the aircraft.
After passing, you’ll receive a temporary certificate immediately. Your permanent certificate with the new type rating arrives within a few weeks. Some type ratings come with limitations, such as VFR-only until you complete supervised Initial Operating Experience with your employer.
Pro Tips for Type Rating Success
We’ve seen thousands of pilots go through type rating training, and the successful ones share common habits. Start studying aircraft systems before your formal training begins. Get your hands on the aircraft flight manual, study guides, or online resources and familiarize yourself with basic systems. This foundation makes ground school much less overwhelming.
Chair flying is your secret weapon. Sit in a quiet space, close your eyes, and mentally rehearse procedures, flows, and callouts. This costs nothing but dramatically improves your performance in the simulator. Practice memory items and emergency procedures until they’re automatic. When an engine fails on takeoff in the sim, you can’t afford to think about what comes next.
Physical and mental fitness matter more than you might expect. Type rating training is exhausting, with long days of intense concentration. Get adequate sleep, eat well, and take care of yourself. Burned-out pilots don’t perform well in the simulator or on checkrides.
Don’t be shy about asking questions. If something doesn’t make sense during ground school, speak up immediately. Confusion compounds quickly in type rating training, and your instructors are there to help. Connect with other pilots who’ve completed the same type rating for insights, tips, and encouragement.
Stay organized with your notes, checklists, and study materials. Create flashcards for memory items, draw systems diagrams, and develop your own study techniques that work for you. Everyone learns differently, so find what clicks for your learning style.
Your Journey to Advanced Aviation Starts Here
Earning an aircraft type rating represents a significant milestone in your aviation career. It’s challenging, requires dedication and financial investment, but opens doors to flying opportunities you’ve been working toward since your first discovery flight. From corporate jets to international airliners, your type rating is the key that unlocks the next chapter of your flying career.
The process might seem daunting right now, especially if you’re still working through your commercial training or building hours. That’s completely normal. Every airline captain and corporate pilot you admire went through this exact same process, feeling the same mixture of excitement and nervousness you’re feeling now.
At Pilots Academy, we understand that advanced training represents a major commitment, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring your options, planning your timeline, or ready to start training, our experienced team can provide guidance tailored to your specific goals and situation. We’ve helped countless pilots navigate the type rating process and transition into their dream flying careers.
Ready to take the next step in your aviation journey? Connect with our career advisors to discuss your type rating options and explore how our advanced training programs can help you reach your goals. Your future in aviation is closer than you think.Retry
Frequently Asked Questions About Aircraft Type Ratings
Can you get a type rating without an ATP certificate?
Yes, you can earn a type rating with just a commercial pilot certificate for many aircraft. However, heavier aircraft and airline positions typically require an ATP certificate. You can complete your ATP and type rating simultaneously through an ATP Certification Training Program, which many pilots do when transitioning to airlines.
How long does it take to get a type rating?
Most type rating programs take three to four weeks from start to finish, including ground school, simulator training, and the checkride. Some accelerated programs condense this into two weeks, while part-time programs might stretch over several months. The timeline depends on your schedule, the training provider’s availability, and how quickly you progress through the material.
Do type ratings expire?
No, type ratings themselves don’t expire. Once you earn a type rating, it remains on your certificate permanently. However, to act as pilot-in-command, you must maintain currency through recurrent training, proficiency checks, and meeting experience requirements. Airlines and corporate operators typically require recurrent training every six to twelve months.
What’s the hardest part of type rating training?
Most pilots say the sheer volume of information in ground school is the biggest challenge. You’re learning complex systems in a compressed timeframe while preparing for simulator sessions. The simulator training itself is demanding but most pilots find it more engaging than classroom study. The key is staying organized and not falling behind in your studying.
Can you fail a type rating checkride?
Yes, and it happens more often than you might think. Type rating standards are high, and nerves can get the best of even experienced pilots. If you don’t meet standards on your first attempt, you’ll receive additional training to address weak areas before retesting. A failed checkride isn’t the end of your career, but it does require extra time and money to remediate.
Is it worth getting a type rating before getting hired?
This depends on your career goals and financial situation. Having a type rating can make you more competitive for certain positions, especially in corporate aviation. However, most airlines provide type rating training, so paying out of pocket isn’t always necessary. Research your target employers to see what they require and prefer before making this investment.
What type rating should I get first?
Choose a type rating that aligns with your career goals and the aircraft you’ll likely fly. If you’re targeting regional airlines, a CRJ or E-Jet type rating makes sense. For corporate aviation, consider Citations, King Airs, or Gulfstreams. If you’re unsure, more common type ratings like the Citation or King Air provide versatility and are widely recognized by employers.