By Renzo, CPL · March 6, 2026
Boeing 737 MAX Type Rating: Cost and Timeline 2026
Your Guide to the 737 MAX Type Rating
The Boeing 737 MAX is the most widely ordered narrowbody aircraft in history, making the 737 type rating one of the most marketable qualifications a pilot can hold.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Airline-Sponsored | Self-Sponsored |
|---|---|---|
| Ground school (2-3 weeks) | Included | $8,000-$12,000 |
| Simulator sessions (40+ hrs) | Included | $25,000-$35,000 |
| Checkride | Included | $2,000-$3,000 |
| Travel and accommodation | Included | $3,000-$5,000 |
| **Total** | **$0** | **$38,500-$56,000** |
Training Timeline
Weeks 1-2: Ground School
- Aircraft systems (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, pressurization)
- Engine operation (CFM LEAP-1B)
- MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System) -- critical post-accident training
- Normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures
Weeks 3-4: Simulator Training
10-12 sessions of 4 hours each covering normal operations, approaches, engine failures, emergencies, windshear, and LOFT scenarios.
Week 4: Checkride
- Oral examination (1-2 hours) on systems and limitations
- Simulator checkride (3-4 hours) with normal and abnormal scenarios
Key Limitations
| Parameter | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max takeoff weight | 181,200 lbs (MAX 8) |
| Maximum altitude | 41,000 ft |
| Mmo | 0.82 Mach |
| Crosswind limit | 32 knots |
Type Rating Portability
The 737 type covers all variants -- 737 NG and all MAX models (7/8/9/10). Only differences training (1-2 days) is needed between variants, making it one of the most versatile ratings available.
Career Impact
Major operators: Southwest (250+), United (200+), Ryanair (300+), American (150+), Alaska (100+).
| Position | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 737 MAX Captain (Southwest) | $310,000-$420,000 |
| 737 MAX Captain (United) | $290,000-$400,000 |
| 737 MAX FO (Major) | $105,000-$270,000 |
The Bottom Line
The 737 type rating is one of the most valuable in commercial aviation. With thousands flying worldwide and massive order backlogs, demand for 737-rated pilots will remain strong for decades.
*Build your airline-ready knowledge with our [ATPL question bank](/) and estimate earnings with our [salary calculator](/tools/salary).*
Ready to start studying?
2,200+ practice questions with AI tutor — pass your FAA or ATPL exam on the first try.
Free pilot career tools
Plan your aviation career with these free interactive tools. No account required.
Rotate Pilot
Your fastest path to passing the checkride
2,200+ questions, AI-powered explanations, progress tracking, and study plans built for FAA & ATPL exams.