Type Rating: Complete Guide for Airline Pilots (2026)

January 19, 2026

Introduction

A type rating represents one of the most significant milestones in an airline pilot's career. Whether you're an aspiring pilot planning your first type rating or an experienced aviator transitioning to a new aircraft, understanding the certification requirements, training process, and associated costs is essential for career advancement. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about type ratings in 2025, including detailed information on popular aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.

What Is a Type Rating?

A type rating is a specific authorization entered on or associated with a pilot license that qualifies pilots to operate a particular make and model of aircraft. According to 14 CFR §61.31, this certification goes beyond the scope of initial license and aircraft class training, requiring additional specialized instruction on aircraft-specific systems, procedures, and operations.

Legal Definition and Authority

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) defines type rating requirements in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 61, Section 31. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) also establishes international personnel licensing requirements in Annex 1 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, which individual countries adopt and adapt to their regulatory frameworks.

When Is a Type Rating Required?

According to FAA regulations under 14 CFR §61.31, pilots must hold a type rating when acting as pilot in command of:

Large aircraft (except lighter-than-air) - defined as aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 12,500 pounds
Turbojet-powered airplanes - any aircraft powered by turbojet engines, regardless of weight
Powered-lift aircraft - such as the V-22 Osprey
Other aircraft specified by the Administrator through aircraft type certificate procedures

The 12,500-pound weight limit was instituted in 1952 and was likely selected as it represented half of the 25,000-pound gross takeoff weight of the Douglas DC-3, a common aircraft at the time.

Type Rating vs. Class Rating

Understanding the distinction between type ratings and class ratings is crucial for pilot certification planning:

Class Rating: Covers a broad category of aircraft with similar operating characteristics (e.g., single-engine land, multi-engine land). No type rating required for most single-engine piston aircraft under 12,500 pounds.
Type Rating: Aircraft-specific certification for complex, heavy, or turbojet-powered aircraft requiring specialized knowledge of particular systems and procedures.

For example, a pilot with a multi-engine class rating can legally fly various twin-engine piston aircraft under 12,500 pounds. However, to fly a Boeing 737 or Airbus A320, that same pilot must obtain a specific type rating for that exact aircraft model.

Type Rating Requirements

FAA Type Rating Requirements (14 CFR §61.31)

The FAA establishes clear prerequisites and training requirements for type rating certification:

Prerequisites

Before beginning type rating training, pilots must:

Hold at least a Private Pilot License (though most type rating candidates hold Commercial or ATP certificates)
Possess an Instrument Rating (required for all turbine aircraft operations)
Meet medical certification requirements (typically First or Second Class for commercial operations)
Have appropriate English language proficiency as required by ICAO standards

Training Components

Type rating training encompasses both ground instruction and flight training:

Ground School Requirements:

Aircraft systems (hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, fuel, flight controls)
Aircraft limitations and performance data
Normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures
Flight Management System (FMS) operation
Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Flight Training Requirements:

Normal flight procedures (preflight through landing)
Instrument procedures specific to the aircraft type
Emergency procedures and system failures
Upset prevention and recovery training (UPRT)
Crew coordination and communication

ICAO Type Rating Standards

ICAO stipulates that type ratings should be established for:

Aircraft requiring a minimum crew of at least two pilots
Any aircraft the licensing authority considers necessary based on complexity or operational characteristics

ICAO requires applicants to demonstrate proficiency in:

All normal flight procedures
All emergency procedures
Instrument procedures (where applicable)
Upset prevention and recovery

International Variations

Different countries implement ICAO standards with local variations:

EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency): Similar weight thresholds but may have different training hour requirements
Transport Canada: Follows ICAO closely with specific Canadian variations
CASA (Australia): May require additional endorsements for specific operations
New Zealand: No class ratings; each aircraft model requires its own rating

How to Get a Type Rating: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Ground School Training

Type rating ground school typically lasts 2-3 weeks and covers comprehensive aircraft systems knowledge.

Duration: 80-120 hours of instruction Format: Classroom instruction, computer-based training (CBT), or combination Topics Covered:

Detailed aircraft systems study
Aircraft performance and limitations
Flight planning specific to the aircraft type
Regulatory requirements and operational procedures
Emergency procedures and abnormal situations

Many pilots supplement formal ground school with self-study materials. Resources like comprehensive systems study notes for specific aircraft types can significantly enhance understanding and retention of complex systems.

Step 2: Simulator Training

Full-flight simulator (FFS) training forms the core of type rating certification, utilizing Level C or Level D simulators that precisely replicate the aircraft.

Duration: 30-50 hours of simulator time Training Progression:

Phase 1: Procedures Training (10-15 hours)

Cockpit familiarization
Normal procedures practice
Checklist usage and flow patterns
Basic flight maneuvers

Phase 2: Maneuvers Training (10-15 hours)

Takeoffs and landings (normal and crosswind)
Instrument approaches (ILS, RNAV, visual)
Steep turns and unusual attitudes
Go-arounds and missed approaches

Phase 3: Line-Oriented Flight Training - LOFT (8-12 hours)

Realistic flight scenarios from departure to arrival
Multi-crew coordination
Decision-making under pressure
Complete flight segments with various weather and system conditions

Phase 4: Emergency Procedures (8-12 hours)

Engine failures at critical phases
System malfunctions (hydraulic, electrical, pressurization)
Rejected takeoffs
Emergency descents and landings

Step 3: Checkride (Practical Test)

The type rating checkride consists of an oral examination and simulator evaluation conducted by an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) or airline check airman.

Oral Examination (2-3 hours):

Aircraft systems knowledge verification
Emergency procedures and limitations
Performance calculations and flight planning
Regulatory knowledge specific to aircraft operations

Simulator Evaluation (3-4 hours):

Demonstration of proficiency in normal procedures
Emergency procedure execution
Instrument approach precision
Crew resource management skills
Decision-making capability under abnormal conditions

Pass Standards:

Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) standards for maneuvers
Zero-tolerance for safety-related errors
Proper crew coordination and communication
Adherence to standard operating procedures

Type Rating Costs in 2025

Type rating costs vary significantly based on aircraft type, training location, and whether training is self-funded or airline-sponsored.

A320 Type Rating Cost 2025

The Airbus A320 family (A318, A319, A320, A321) shares a common type rating, making it one of the most sought-after certifications.

Self-Funded Training:

Total Cost Range: $28,000 - $45,000 USD
Ground School: $3,000 - $5,000
Simulator Training: $22,000 - $35,000
Examiner Fees: $1,500 - $2,500
Study Materials: $500 - $1,000
Administrative Fees: $1,000 - $1,500

Airline-Sponsored Training:

Usually provided at no cost to the pilot
May include training bond agreement (12-36 months)
Full salary typically paid during training period

Geographic Variations:

United States: $32,000 - $42,000
Europe (EASA): €28,000 - €38,000
Asia-Pacific: $30,000 - $45,000

737 Type Rating Cost 2025

The Boeing 737 family (737 Classic, 737 NG, 737 MAX) requires separate type ratings for different variants, though the 737 NG family shares a common rating.

737 NG Type Rating:

Total Cost Range: $30,000 - $48,000 USD
Ground School: $3,500 - $5,500
Simulator Training: $24,000 - $38,000
Examiner Fees: $1,500 - $2,500
Study Materials: $500 - $1,200
Administrative Fees: $1,000 - $1,800

737 MAX Type Rating:

Similar cost to 737 NG
Additional MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System) training required
Differences course from 737 NG: $5,000 - $8,000

Other Popular Type Rating Costs (2025)

Boeing 777 Type Rating:

Cost Range: $40,000 - $60,000 USD
Longer training duration due to aircraft complexity
Advanced systems require extended ground school

Airbus A350 Type Rating:

Cost Range: $42,000 - $65,000 USD
State-of-the-art systems technology
Extended simulator time for new flight deck familiarization

Regional Jets (CRJ, ERJ):

Cost Range: $18,000 - $28,000 USD
Shorter training programs
Often first type rating for new commercial pilots

Factors Affecting Type Rating Costs

Training Location: Costs vary by country and training center
Simulator Availability: High-demand simulators command premium prices
Instructor Experience: Senior instructors may charge higher rates
Training Timeline: Accelerated programs may cost more
Additional Services: Housing, transportation, and meals not typically included
Retake Fees: Failed checkride attempts incur additional examiner and simulator costs

Financing Options

Pay-as-You-Go: Spread payments throughout training period Training Loans: Specialized aviation training loans with deferred payment Credit Cards: Higher interest but immediate availability Personal Loans: Lower interest rates for qualified candidates Airline Sponsorship: Most cost-effective but requires employment commitment

Popular Type Ratings for Airline Pilots

Airbus A320 Family Type Rating

The A320 family represents the world's best-selling narrow-body aircraft series, with over 10,000 aircraft delivered worldwide.

Aircraft Covered Under Single Type Rating:

A318 (shortened fuselage variant)
A319 (shortened fuselage variant)
A320 (baseline model)
A321 (stretched fuselage variant)

Career Advantages:

Highest demand globally among narrow-body aircraft
Extensive route networks worldwide
Common rating across variants reduces training costs
Strong job market in all geographic regions

Training Duration: 6-8 weeks total (ground school + simulator)

Recommended Preparation: Thorough study of A320 systems before ground school significantly reduces training stress and improves checkride success rates. Comprehensive A320 Systems Study Notes provide detailed coverage of all aircraft systems, limitations, and procedures essential for type rating preparation.

Boeing 737 Family Type Rating

The Boeing 737 series holds the record as the best-selling commercial aircraft in history, with continuous production since 1967.

737 Next Generation (NG) Type Rating Covers:

737-600
737-700
737-800
737-900/900ER

737 MAX Type Rating (separate from 737 NG):

737 MAX 7
737 MAX 8
737 MAX 9
737 MAX 10

Career Advantages:

Largest installed base of any commercial aircraft
Opportunities with major carriers (Southwest, Ryanair, United, American)
Strong demand for 737-rated pilots globally
MAX certification provides access to newest technology

Training Duration: 6-9 weeks total

Recommended Preparation: The B737 NG systems differ significantly from Airbus philosophy. Comprehensive B737 NG Systems Study Notes offer detailed explanations of Boeing systems architecture, enabling faster comprehension during ground school and simulator training.

Boeing 777 Type Rating

The Boeing 777 represents the world's largest twinjet and is operated on long-haul routes worldwide.

Aircraft Variants:

777-200/200ER
777-200LR (Longer Range)
777-300/300ER
777F (Freighter)

Career Advantages:

Premium long-haul operations
Higher pilot compensation
International route experience
Advanced technology exposure
Typically requires significant flight experience (2,000+ hours)

Training Duration: 8-10 weeks total

Recommended Preparation: B777 systems complexity exceeds narrow-body aircraft significantly. Comprehensive B777 Systems Study Notes provide in-depth coverage of advanced systems including fly-by-wire architecture, AIMS (Airplane Information Management System), and complex fuel system management.

Airbus A350 Type Rating

The Airbus A350 XWB (Extra Wide Body) represents the latest generation of wide-body aircraft technology.

Aircraft Variants:

A350-900
A350-1000

Career Advantages:

Newest technology and most advanced cockpit systems
Premium airline operations
Excellent working conditions and pilot amenities
Future-proof career investment
Growing fleet worldwide

Training Duration: 8-11 weeks total

Recommended Preparation: The A350 introduces revolutionary cockpit design and systems integration. Comprehensive A350 Systems Study Notes detail the advanced technologies including enhanced flight envelope protection, integrated modular avionics, and revolutionary electrical system architecture.

Type Rating Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

Standard Timeline (Full-Time Training)

Week 1-3: Ground School

Classroom instruction: 8-10 hours daily
Self-study: 3-5 hours daily
Systems examinations
Procedures memorization

Week 4-7: Simulator Training

Simulator sessions: 4-hour blocks
Brief/debrief: 2-3 hours per session
Self-study and procedure review
Emergency procedures practice

Week 8: Checkride Preparation

Final systems review
Emergency procedures drilling
Checkride scenarios practice
Rest before examination

Week 8-9: Checkride

Oral examination
Simulator practical test
License application processing

Total Duration: 7-9 weeks for narrow-body aircraft, 8-11 weeks for wide-body aircraft

Part-Time Training

Some training centers offer part-time programs:

Duration: 12-16 weeks
Schedule: 2-3 training days per week
Advantage: Maintain current employment
Disadvantage: Extended timeline and potentially higher costs

Differences Training

Pilots transitioning between similar aircraft types may qualify for shorter differences courses:

A320 to A321: 5-10 days
737-800 to 737 MAX: 10-15 days
777-200 to 777-300: 7-14 days
Cost: $5,000 - $12,000

Type Rating Insurance Requirements

Why Insurance Companies Care About Type Ratings

Aircraft insurance underwriters evaluate pilot qualifications carefully, as type ratings directly impact safety and risk assessment.

Common Insurance Requirements:

Minimum Flight Time in Type:

New type rating: Often requires 100-300 hours supervised operation
Solo PIC operations: May require 500+ hours in type
Charter operations: Higher minimums typically required

Recency Requirements:

Three takeoffs/landings in preceding 90 days
Instrument currency maintained
Annual or semi-annual proficiency checks

Additional Training:

Initial Operating Experience (IOE) with check airman
Annual recurrent training
Line checks and route checks

Career Impact

Insurance requirements affect employment opportunities:

First Officer positions: Lower minimums, easier entry
Captain upgrades: Require substantial type experience
Contract pilot work: Often requires extensive type time
Corporate aviation: May require specific insurance minimums

Type Rating Career Planning

Strategic Type Rating Selection

Choosing the right first type rating significantly impacts career trajectory:

High-Demand Type Ratings:

A320 Family: Maximum global opportunities, diverse operators
Boeing 737 NG/MAX: Largest installed base, extensive hiring
Embraer E-Jet: Strong regional airline demand
Bombardier CRJ: Regional carrier opportunities

Career Advancement Type Ratings:

Boeing 777: Premium long-haul operations
Airbus A350: Latest technology, expanding fleets
Boeing 787: Global premium carrier operations
Airbus A330: Wide-body experience builder

Multiple Type Ratings

Holding multiple type ratings provides career flexibility:

Advantages:

Broader employment opportunities
Easier airline transitions
Negotiating leverage
Career backup options

Considerations:

Recurrency training costs
Maintaining proficiency in multiple types
Insurance and medical examination requirements
Time management for multiple check rides

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do You Need a Type Rating for a PC-12?

No, the Pilatus PC-12 does not require a type rating in the United States. The PC-12 is turboprop-powered (not turbojet) and has a maximum takeoff weight under 12,500 pounds, allowing operation under a multi-engine class rating with appropriate endorsements. However, insurance companies often require PC-12-specific training.

What Is the Easiest Type Rating to Get?

Regional jets like the Embraer ERJ-145 or Bombardier CRJ-200 are often considered the most accessible first type ratings. They feature less complex systems than larger aircraft, shorter training programs (4-6 weeks), and lower costs ($18,000-$25,000). These aircraft serve as excellent stepping stones to larger equipment.

Can You Get a Type Rating Without an ATP?

Yes, you can obtain a type rating with a Commercial Pilot License and Instrument Rating. However, to serve as captain (PIC) in commercial airline operations under Part 121, you must hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. Many pilots complete their type rating simultaneously with ATP certification.

How Long Is a Type Rating Valid?

Type ratings themselves do not expire and remain on your license permanently. However, to exercise the privileges of a type rating, you must maintain currency through:

Takeoffs and landings within preceding 90 days
Instrument currency requirements
Biennial Flight Review (BFR) or equivalent
Airline-specific recurrent training (annually or semi-annually)

What Happens If You Fail a Type Rating Checkride?

If you fail a type rating checkride, you will receive disapproval notice identifying areas of deficiency. You may retake the failed portion(s) after additional training. Most training centers provide remedial instruction to address weaknesses. Additional costs include examiner fees ($1,500-$2,500) and simulator time ($800-$1,500 per hour).

Are Type Ratings Transferable Between Countries?

Type ratings may be transferable through ICAO license validation or conversion processes. The specific requirements depend on bilateral agreements between countries. For example, an FAA type rating can often be validated on an EASA license through differences training and administrative procedures. Always verify requirements with the destination country's civil aviation authority.

Conclusion

Obtaining a type rating represents a significant career investment requiring careful planning, substantial financial commitment, and dedicated study. Whether pursuing an A320 type rating, 737 type rating, or another aircraft certification, thorough preparation dramatically improves training success and checkride pass rates.

Understanding type rating requirements under 14 CFR §61.31, realistic cost expectations for 2025, and strategic aircraft selection positions pilots for optimal career advancement. The training process, while demanding, opens doors to professional airline operations and enhanced earning potential.

Prepare for Type Rating Success

Maximize your type rating training investment with comprehensive aircraft systems study materials:

A320 Systems Study Notes - Complete Airbus A320 family systems coverage with detailed schematics, limitations, and procedures
B737 NG Systems Study Notes - Comprehensive Boeing 737 Next Generation systems guide for ground school and checkride preparation
B777 Systems Study Notes - Advanced Boeing 777 systems documentation covering all aircraft variants and complex systems
A350 Systems Study Notes - Cutting-edge Airbus A350 systems reference with latest technology explanations

Thorough systems knowledge before ground school reduces training stress, improves retention, and increases checkride success rates. These comprehensive study notes provide the foundation for confident type rating completion and long-term operational proficiency.

Begin your type rating journey with proper preparation. Your future airline career starts with the decision to invest in quality training and study materials today.