Type Rating
A type rating is required by ICAO Annex 1 for any aircraft that requires more than one pilot or has a maximum takeoff mass exceeding 5,700 kg. This guide covers the type rating process, what to expect during ground school and simulator training, how to prepare for the skill test, and key differences between EASA and FAA type rating requirements. Whether you are heading to your first B737 type rating or transitioning to a widebody A350, this comprehensive guide will prepare you.
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Who Needs This
EASA States
Type rating per Part-FCL Subpart H. Training at EASA ATO. Skill test with TRE. Typically 6-8 weeks.
FAA (United States)
Type rating per 14 CFR 61.63. Can be added to private/commercial/ATP. Training at 142 school or Part 61. Practical test with DPE or airline check airman.
CAAC (China)
Type rating through approved Chinese ATOs. Ground school + sim + line training. Chinese-specific procedures added.
CASA (Australia)
Type rating endorsement on pilot licence. Flight test with CASA examiner.
DGAC (LATAM)
Most LATAM countries accept EASA or FAA type ratings with validation. Some require additional local exams.
What's Covered
Ground School Phase
Simulator Training (FSTD Phase)
Skill Test / Proficiency Check
Standards & Requirements
- ICAO Annex 1 — Type rating required for multi-crew aircraft or MTOM > 5,700 kg
- CPL or ATPL (or MPL for EASA multi-crew type ratings)
- EASA: MCC (Multi-Crew Cooperation) course if first multi-pilot type rating
- Valid Class 1 medical certificate
- Typically 200+ hours total flight time (airline requirements vary, usually 500+)
- ICAO English Level 4 minimum for international operations
Key ICAO Standards & Documents
- ICAO Annex 1 — §2.1.5 (Type ratings for aeroplanes)
- EASA Part-FCL Subpart H — Class and Type Ratings
- EASA Part-FCL Appendix 9 — Skill Test for Type Ratings
- 14 CFR §61.63 — Additional Aircraft Ratings
- ICAO Doc 9868 — PANS-TRG (Type Rating Training)
How to Prepare
Study aircraft systems manuals (FCOM/FCTM) before ground school starts — get ahead on systems knowledge
Learn memory items and limitations cold before the simulator phase
Practice flows and checklists using cockpit posters or iPad apps (e.g., A320 or B737 trainer apps)
Chair-fly procedures: sit in a chair, visualize the cockpit, and talk through each procedure step by step
Focus on standard operating procedures (SOPs) — airlines test adherence to SOP, not stick-and-rudder
Review instrument approach procedures and plate reading skills
Practice CRM skills: callouts, cross-checks, brief/debrief habits
Get enough rest — simulator training is mentally demanding, fatigue is your enemy
Key Differences by Region
Type rating can be added at any certificate level (private through ATP). Practical test with DPE. No mandatory MCC course. More flexibility in training structure.
Type rating training must be at an approved ATO. MCC course required for first multi-pilot type. Structured syllabus per Part-FCL. Skill test with TRE per Appendix 9.
Additional Chinese-specific procedures and regulations. Training at CAAC-approved facilities. May require Chinese language proficiency for domestic operations.
Type endorsement added to licence. Flight training at approved facilities. Type-specific examinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a type rating course take?
Typically 6-8 weeks for a full type rating course. This includes about 2-3 weeks of ground school and 4-5 weeks of simulator training (depending on the aircraft type and authority).
How much does a type rating cost?
Self-sponsored type ratings range from $15,000 to $40,000+ depending on the aircraft type and location. Airlines typically cover the cost for pilots they hire, sometimes with a training bond.
Can I get an FAA type rating with an EASA license?
You need a valid FAA certificate to hold an FAA type rating. You can obtain an FAA certificate based on your EASA license under 14 CFR 61.75 (foreign-based) or by converting fully.
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