Best First Type Rating for New Pilots in 2026
Choosing Your First Type Rating Wisely
Most airline pilots get their first type rating when hired by an airline at the airline's expense. But some pilots self-sponsor to improve marketability, especially for international airlines.
Type Rating Comparison
| Type Rating | Cost | Duration | Marketability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737 | $38,000-$55,000 | 3-5 weeks | Very High | US and international airlines |
| Airbus A320 | $35,000-$50,000 | 4-6 weeks | Very High | European and Asian airlines |
| Embraer E-175 | $25,000-$35,000 | 3-4 weeks | High | Regional airline fast-track |
| Citation CJ/XLS | $15,000-$25,000 | 2-3 weeks | Medium | Part 135 corporate/charter |
| King Air B200 | $10,000-$18,000 | 1-2 weeks | Medium | Turboprop charter |
When Self-Sponsoring Makes Sense
- International airlines requiring a type before hiring
- Career transition from military or corporate
- European cadets (EASA carriers often expect typed candidates)
- Competitive differentiation in the market
When It Does NOT Make Sense
- You have a US airline offer (they pay for your type)
- You have low total hours (airlines want hours before types)
- It requires excessive debt
Top Recommendations
For Airline Aspirants: 737 or A320
Choose 737 for US-focused career, A320 for European or Asian focus.
For Corporate Career: Citation CJ or XLS
Citations are the most common business jets. Lower cost ($15,000-$25,000) opens doors immediately.
For Versatility: King Air B200
Lowest cost ($10,000-$18,000), enormous fleet worldwide, excellent turbine time builder.
Return on Investment
| Type Rating | Cost | Income Increase | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| 737/A320 to airline | $45,000 | +$30,000-$50,000/yr | 1-2 years |
| Citation to Part 135 | $18,000 | +$15,000-$25,000/yr | 1-2 years |
| King Air to charter | $12,000 | +$10,000-$20,000/yr | 1-2 years |
The Bottom Line
Your first type rating should align with your career goal. For most airline-bound pilots, let an airline pay for it. For corporate pilots, a Citation or King Air opens immediate doors.
*Prepare for type rating ground school with our [ATPL question bank](/) covering aircraft systems and performance.*
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