Definition
A type rating is an aircraft-specific qualification required for pilots operating certain categories of aircraft that are too complex to be covered by a general class rating alone. In the United States, the FAA requires a type rating for any aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight exceeding 12,500 pounds, and for all turbojet-powered aircraft regardless of weight. This means that pilots transitioning to aircraft such as the Boeing 737, Airbus A320, Cessna Citation, or any other jet or large aircraft must complete a type rating course specific to that aircraft before acting as pilot in command. Type rating training is typically conducted by the aircraft manufacturer, specialized training centers, or airlines themselves, often using Level D full-flight simulators that replicate the aircraft's systems, handling characteristics, and cockpit environment with high fidelity. The training program includes extensive ground school covering the aircraft's systems (hydraulics, electrical, pressurization, avionics, engines, and automation), followed by simulator sessions that progress from normal operations through increasingly complex abnormal and emergency scenarios. The course culminates in a practical test (type ride) that may be conducted in the simulator or in the actual aircraft. Under EASA regulations, type ratings are required for all multi-pilot aircraft and for single-pilot aircraft classified as high-performance or complex. EASA type rating courses follow a structured syllabus defined by the aircraft manufacturer's Operational Suitability Data (OSD) and must be conducted by an Approved Training Organisation. Type ratings under EASA also require periodic proficiency checks and recurrent training to maintain validity.
Why It Matters for Flight Schools
Type rating training represents a specialized and high-revenue segment of the flight training industry. While many general aviation flight schools do not offer type ratings directly, larger training organizations and dedicated type rating training providers manage complex programs that may involve multiple aircraft types, simulator scheduling across different facilities, and coordination with airline partners who send their pilots for initial and recurrent type rating training. For flight schools that do offer type rating courses — particularly for popular light jets or turboprops — the operational complexity is significant. Simulator time must be scheduled precisely (often in multi-hour blocks across several consecutive days), ground school instructors must be current and qualified on the specific aircraft type, and the training must align with the candidate's existing qualifications and the operator's requirements.
How Aviatize Handles This
Aviatize supports type rating training programs by managing the complex scheduling requirements of simulator-based courses, including multi-day block scheduling, instructor assignment based on type-specific qualifications, and ground school session coordination. The platform tracks each candidate's progress through the structured type rating syllabus, recording completion of ground school modules, simulator sessions, and evaluation checkpoints. For training organizations managing multiple aircraft types, Aviatize provides a unified view of all active type rating courses, simulator utilization, and instructor availability across types. The training record system captures type-specific proficiency standards and can track recurrent training due dates, helping operators ensure their pilots remain current on their assigned aircraft types.