What Is Type Rating and Why Is It So Expensive?

If you’re thinking of becoming a commercial pilot, you’ve likely heard of “type rating.” It’s one of the most important — and expensive — steps towards becoming an airline pilot. So, what is type rating, and why is it so expensive?

Let’s break it down step by step.

 What Is Type Rating?

In plain words, a type rating is a special certification a pilot must have to operate a particular type of aircraft. Although your general pilot license (e.g., CPL – Commercial Pilot License) allows you to pilot general aircraft, it doesn’t entitle you to pilot advanced jets like the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737. You require a type rating for that.

 Definition by Aviation Authorities

As per the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as well as the majority of national aviation agencies (such as DGCA for India, FAA for the USA, or EASA for Europe), type rating is:

“A qualification needed to operate a specific aircraft type which requires extra training outside the ambit of the basic license.”

Why Type Rating Is Mandatory?

New-generation aircraft are highly advanced and vary significantly in systems, controls, and performance. Pilots need to be trained specifically for a particular model of aircraft to provide safety and operational effectiveness.

For instance, flying a Cessna 172 (regular training aircraft) is much different from flying an Airbus A320 with automated flight, fly-by-wire controls, and multi-crew cockpit operation.

 Who Needs Type Rating?

You require a type rating if you wish to:

• Fly for an airline operating jet aircraft
• Change from propeller planes to jets
• Fly a new type of aircraft not included in your initial license
• Operate internationally, where certain types are necessary
• Therefore, after you’ve achieved 200 hours of flight school and your CPL, you still can’t fly for an airline unless you have a type rating for the aircraft operated by that airline.

What Does Type Rating Training Involve?

Type rating is a thorough training program that generally consists of:

1. Ground School (2–4 Weeks)

You’ll learn:

Aircraft systems (hydraulics, electrics, fuel, etc.)

Performance and limitations

Operating procedures and emergency checklists

Flight management system (FMS) operation

2. Simulator Training (30–40 Hours)

You will be trained in a Level D Full Flight Simulator, which simulates the actual aircraft cockpit with 100% accuracy.

You’ll practice normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures.

3. LOFT (Line-Oriented Flight Training)

Simulator scenarios based on real airline operation.

4. Check Ride / Skill Test

A practical test in the simulator by an examiner.

You will have to show ability in every aspect of flight operations.

 Why Is Type Rating So Expensive?

Let’s discuss the most important factors that make type rating so costly:

1. Full Flight Simulator Costs

A Type Rating simulator (Level D) costs $10–20 million to produce and maintain.

Daily rental of such a simulator may cost $300 to $500 an hour or more.

You require 30–40 hours of simulator time.

2. Instructor and Examiner Fees

They are very experienced and well-compensated instructors and examiners.
Time is charged for their services, adding to the cost substantially.

3. Ground School Materials and Facility Use

Advanced study materials, mock-ups, and classroom time cost a fortune.

Facilities are high-tech and built to airline standard.

4. Administrative and Licensing Fees

Licensing authorities charge fees for conducting tests, issuing endorsements, and simulator approvals.

5. Accommodation and Travel

Most students travel around the world for type rating (especially from India to locations like the UAE, Europe, or Southeast Asia).

Living costs, travel, and visas add up.

How Much Does Type Rating Cost?

Cost depends on the aircraft type and the training organization. Here’s an approximate idea:

Aircraft Type Cost Range (USD) Cost Range (INR)
Airbus A320 $25,000 – $35,000 ₹20 – ₹30 Lakhs
Boeing 737 NG $25,000 – $40,000 ₹20 – ₹32 Lakhs
ATR 72 $15,000 – $25,000 ₹12 – ₹20 Lakhs

Tip: Certain airlines provide “bonded” type rating schemes where they fund your type rating and reimburse the cost over a few years of employment.

 Can You Get a Job Without Type Rating?

In general, airlines do favor candidates who already possess a type rating on the aircraft type. Employing a type-rated pilot is time- and cost-saving for the airline.

Some airlines do hire newly qualified CPL holders and offer type rating training, particularly when there are pilot shortages. Such programs are competitive and might involve signing an agreement or bond.

 Worth the Investment?

As costly as it is, a type rating is an investment you will make in your career in aviation. Consider it your “admission ticket” to the cockpit of a commercial airliner.

After you’ve achieved your type rating and accumulated experience, your opportunities to be hired on and advance in the field become much better. Owing to pilot demand increasing in the future, OIN can be good.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Step in Your Pilot Career

Type rating is not merely another qualification — it’s the stepping stone between your CPL and your dream airline career. While pricey, it represents the sophistication and responsibility of flying contemporary commercial planes.

If you’re preparing for your aviation career, be sure to include the expense and significance of type rating in your planning. Look into your training organization thoroughly, and check out financing or sponsorship arrangements.