What is a type rating?
A type rating is an additional qualification added to your commercial pilot licence that authorises you to operate a specific aircraft type as a commercial pilot. Unlike a basic PPL, which covers a broad category of aircraft (single-engine piston), a type rating is aircraft-specific.
For most modern airliners — the Boeing 737, Airbus A320 family, ATR 72, Embraer E190, and others — a full type rating is required before you can legally operate the aircraft in a commercial environment. Type rating training is conducted in a Level D Full Flight Simulator (FFS).
Type rating costs by aircraft type (2025)
Type rating costs vary by aircraft complexity, simulator availability, and the training organisation. Here are typical market rates:
- Airbus A320 family (CEO/NEO): €18,000–€28,000
- Boeing 737 NG/MAX: €18,000–€25,000
- ATR 42/72: €12,000–€18,000
- Embraer E170/E190/E195: €15,000–€22,000
- Bombardier CRJ 700/900: €14,000–€20,000
- Bombardier Dash 8 Q400: €13,000–€18,000
Who pays for the type rating?
This varies enormously by airline:
• **Airline-funded**: The airline pays for your type rating and you work it off during a bond period. Common at larger carriers and cadet programs.
• **Self-funded**: You pay for the type rating yourself and then apply for first officer positions. This has become more common in Europe as airlines shift costs to pilots.
• **Loan schemes**: Some flight training organisations and airlines offer financing where you take a loan, then the airline assists with repayment through a salary deduction.
• **Conditional job offers**: Some airlines offer job guarantees contingent on you completing a type rating at your own cost.
What is included in a type rating course?
A standard type rating course under EASA consists of:
• Ground school (aircraft systems, limitations, normal and abnormal procedures) • Fixed Base Simulator (FBS) procedural training • Full Flight Simulator (FFS) training (typically 40–55 hours) • Line Oriented Flight Training (LOFT) • Type rating skill test with an authorised examiner
Total duration is typically 6–10 weeks for the type rating, followed by Operator Conversion Training (OCC) and Line training at the airline.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do a type rating before getting a job offer?
Yes — this is called a "self-sponsored" or "spec" type rating. The advantage is flexibility: you can apply to multiple airlines with a type rating already completed. The risk is paying €18,000–€28,000 without a guaranteed job. Whether this is worthwhile depends on market conditions and your target aircraft type.
How long does a type rating last?
A type rating itself is valid indefinitely, but your OPC (Operator Proficiency Check) must be completed twice per year to maintain currency. If you stop flying that type for more than a year, you may need to complete a full recurrency course.
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