Navigating the Complexities of Obtaining a Commercial Jet Type Rating: A Guide for New Flight Training Graduates
As flight training graduates prepare to embark on their careers, many face the daunting decision of whether to pursue a type rating for a specific commercial jet before securing employment. While the allure of being ready to fly a particular aircraft may seem appealing, the reality is far more complex, and the decision to obtain a type rating requires careful consideration. This article explores the key factors that new pilots should weigh before investing in a type rating.
Which Aircraft Require a Type-rating?
The regulations for this question doffer across the ICAO countries. Some countries require a pilot to hold a type-rating for every different type of aircraft they fly, including training airplanes. However, this is rare. Most ICAO countries follow the FAA type-rating guidelines. Under the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, a type rating is required for pilots to operate certain categories of aircraft. Specifically, the FAA mandates type ratings for the following:
1. Large Aircraft
- Definition: Aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of more than 12,500 pounds (5,700 kg).
- Examples: Most commercial jets, such as the Boeing 737, Airbus A320, and larger corporate jets like the Gulfstream G650.
- Reason: These aircraft are generally more complex in terms of systems, performance, and handling characteristics, necessitating specialized training to ensure safe operation.
2. Turbojet-Powered Aircraft
- Definition: Aircraft powered by turbojet engines, regardless of their weight.
- Examples: Learjet 45, Cessna Citation X, Boeing 747.
- Reason: Turbojet-powered aircraft typically have different performance characteristics, such as higher speeds and operational altitudes, which require pilots to undergo specific training for safe operation.
3. Specific Aircraft Models
- Definition: Some aircraft, due to their unique design, complexity, or operational requirements, require a type rating even if they do not fall under the categories of large or turbojet-powered aircraft.
- Examples: Aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner or Airbus A380 have unique features, such as advanced avionics and fly-by-wire systems, that require specific training beyond general large aircraft or turbojet training.
- Reason: The unique operational and systems characteristics of these models require pilots to undergo focused training to safely manage their advanced technology and handling.
How Much Do They Cost?
One of the most significant factors to consider is the cost of obtaining a type rating. Depending on the aircraft, type ratings can range from $18,000 (for A320 or B737NG) to as much as $100,000 USD (for Gulfstream 550 or Global 7000 large business jets). The cost typically varies based on how rare the aircraft type is, with more specialized or less common aircraft demanding higher fees for training. The cost also heavily depends on the type rating simulator availability: the most common simulators, like CL-65, A320 and B737, are the cheapest to train in. For a new pilot, this represents a substantial financial commitment, and it’s crucial to ensure that this investment will pay off in the long run.
Avoiding Costly Mistakes
Type ratings are specific to an aircraft type. Before committing to a type rating, it’s essential to have a clear path to employment with an airline that operates the specific aircraft type. A type rating is only valid for twelve months, after which the pilot will need to undergo recurrent training to maintain the rating. This recurrent training also comes at a significant cost, often running into thousands of dollars, because a recurrent training for most passenger jets requires a 3-hour check-ride prep, followed by a 3-hour check-ride. At running cost of $1200 USD per sim-hour, a recurrent training course could cost anywhere between $5,000 and $8,000 USD for most popular types. Therefore, securing employment with an airline that operates the aircraft type in question before getting any type rating is critical to avoid unnecessary expenses.
One of the most significant risks of obtaining a type rating without a confirmed job offer is the possibility of never flying the aircraft for which the rating was obtained. If a pilot invests in a type rating but does not get hired by an airline that operates that type of aircraft, they may be left with an expensive qualification that they cannot use. This scenario can be financially devastating, especially for new pilots who are just beginning their careers. More and over, a financial investment into a random type rating could result in the lack of funds for investment into the required for employment type rating, causing a missed employment opportunity to the pilot.
Employment First, Type Rating Second
Given the complexities and costs associated with obtaining a type rating, the most prudent course of action is to secure employment with an airline before pursuing the rating. Many airlines will pay for the type rating of the aircraft they want their pilots to operate, which not only saves the pilot money but also guarantees that the rating will be put to use.
Alternatively, if an airline requires a pilot to obtain a type rating before offering employment, it is crucial to secure a conditional employment offer. This offer should clearly state that the pilot will be employed contingent upon successfully obtaining the type rating, at his own expense, for the specific aircraft the airline would want the pilot to operate. This ensures that the pilot’s investment in the type rating is protected and directly tied to a job opportunity.
Be Strategic, Not Stochastic
For new flight training graduates, the decision to pursue a commercial jet type rating should not be taken lightly. With the significant costs involved and the limited validity of the rating, it is essential to approach this decision with caution and strategic planning. By securing employment first or obtaining a conditional job offer, pilots can ensure that their investment in a type rating is both wise and effective, setting them on the right path for a successful career in aviation.
Seek for employment airlines that pay for pilot’s type rating, and do not require pilots to pay for them out of picket. Airlines such as Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways always cover the full cost of type rating training for the specific aircraft they operate. Same goes to all the airlines in Canada and United States – pilots are never required to pay for their own type ratings. This not only saves pilots from incurring significant debt but also ensures that they receive training on the exact aircraft they will be flying. Student who graduate from the integrated flight training and internship program in Canada after two years of internship are often able to apply for airline employment in Canada after securing CEC PR permits. Even the regional airlines in Canada always fully sponsor pilot’s type ratings.
Remember, that when an airline invests in a pilot’s type rating, it often signifies a long-term commitment to that pilot’s career. This can provide a sense of job security, as the airline has already made a considerable investment in the pilot’s training. In contrast, pilots who independently fund their type rating without a job offer may face uncertainty in securing employment and risk their type rating expiring if they do not find work quickly.
Happy flying!
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About the Author:
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Russ Sherwood is a Captain and a LCP (line check pilot) at a major US airline flying the A320/321 fleet, with the military flying background on the F-16th as WSO. He has logged around 10,000 hours of flight hours and holds airline, commercial and flight instructor pilot licenses issued by the FAA (US), CAAC (China) and DGCA (Indonesia). Russ is also an aviation career development mentor for Aerocadet |