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Writer's pictureAlessandro Tantille

What It’s Like to Do a Type Rating

For any aspiring pilot, completing a type rating on a jet aircraft is a major milestone. Unlike general flight training, a type rating focuses on mastering the systems, procedures, and handling of a specific jet, such as an Airbus A320 or Boeing 737. In Europe, this process is intense, highly rewarding, and essential for transitioning into a professional airline career.


Whether you're fresh out of flight school or transitioning to a new jet, here’s a look at what it’s like to complete a type rating in Europe.


What Is a Type Rating?


A type rating is a certification that qualifies a pilot to fly a specific aircraft type. For jet aircraft, this involves advanced training to understand complex systems, high speeds, and airline operations. In Europe, type ratings are regulated under EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) guidelines.


Why do you need it?


  • Jets like the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320 have unique systems, automation, and handling that require specialised training.

  • Airlines often hire pilots type-rated for the aircraft they operate, saving time and resources in onboarding new hires.


The Type Rating Process


Completing a type rating in Europe is structured, intense, and packed with both theory and practical sessions. It typically lasts 6 to 12 weeks and involves:


1. Ground School (2-3 weeks)


The process begins in the classroom, where you’ll learn the aircraft’s systems in detail.


  • Content: Electrical, hydraulic, fuel, flight control, and avionics systems.

  • Tools: Computer-based training (CBT), manuals, and cockpit mockups.

  • Focus: Understanding normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures.


Expect long days of study, with a lot of new terminology and technical details. You’ll need to pass multiple written exams before moving to the simulator phase.


2. Simulator Training (2-4 weeks)


This is where things get exciting—you step into a Full Flight Simulator (FFS), a high-tech device that replicates real-world flying.


  • Sessions: Usually 10-12 simulator sessions, each lasting 4 hours.

  • Focus:

    • Mastering takeoffs, landings, and flight at high speeds.

    • Handling normal operations as well as complex emergencies (e.g., engine failures, hydraulic loss).

    • CRM (Crew Resource Management) to work seamlessly with co-pilots and crew.

  • Instructor Role: Instructors push you to perform under pressure, testing your decision-making and understanding of the aircraft.


3. Skill Test


At the end of simulator training, you’ll take a skill test with an examiner. This final check evaluates your ability to fly the jet safely and efficiently.


  • You’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in:

    • Normal procedures (taxi, takeoff, cruise, approach, landing).

    • Handling system failures and emergency scenarios.


4. Base Training (Real Aircraft Flying)


Once you’ve passed the simulator phase, it’s time to fly the actual aircraft!

  • You’ll complete 6 takeoffs and landings on the real jet, usually at a quiet airport.

  • This is your chance to feel the jet’s power, handling, and response in real-world conditions.


Challenges of Type Rating


Earning a type rating is an incredible achievement, but it’s far from easy. Here are some common challenges:


  • Intense Study Load: The amount of information to learn in ground school can feel overwhelming.

  • Fast-Paced Training: You’re expected to master the aircraft quickly with little room for error.

  • High Costs: Type ratings are expensive (typically €20,000-€40,000), and many pilots self-fund their training.

  • Pressure to Perform: The simulator sessions are demanding, and mistakes can feel frustrating—but they’re part of the learning process.


Why It’s Worth It


Despite the challenges, completing a type rating in Europe is highly rewarding, for reasons such as:


  • Career Opportunities: A type rating opens doors to airline jobs across Europe and beyond.

  • Professional Skills: You develop precision flying, cockpit discipline, and teamwork under pressure.

  • Personal Achievement: There’s nothing like the feeling of piloting a high-performance jet for the first time.


Imagine stepping into the cockpit of a Boeing 737 or Airbus A320, feeling the roar of the engines, and confidently taking to the skies—you’ve earned that moment through hard work and dedication.



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