How Pilots Retain Their Type Ratings

Type ratings are a crucial aspect of a pilot’s career, granting them the legal authorization to operate large aircraft. Whether it’s a Boeing 737 or a Cessna Citation, every airline pilot must obtain and maintain their type rating through regular training. Let’s delve into the world of type ratings and explore how pilots ensure their proficiency.

Understanding Type Ratings and Training
A type rating serves as an additional endorsement on a pilot’s license, confirming their competence to fly a specific type of transport category or heavy aircraft. Whether it’s a jet or a turboprop like the De Havilland Dash 8, type ratings are necessary qualifications.

Earning a type rating involves passing written theory exams that assess knowledge of aircraft systems and limitations. Additionally, pilots must complete a comprehensive simulator training course. The culmination of this training is a “type ride,” where pilots undergo assessments on maneuvers, normal operations, and emergency procedures.

To retain a type rating, pilots must undergo annual recurrent training. This recurring training, commonly known as “annual recurrent,” is meticulously developed by airline training departments. These week-long courses encompass self-training modules, ground instruction, and simulator sessions.

The FAA or relevant governing body closely monitors and approves these training programs. Successful completion of annual recurrent training ensures that airline pilots can continue operating under their type rating(s). Pilots who take extended leaves from flying must undergo “long-term” training, similar to an initial type rating course, which typically takes a few additional weeks to complete due to its comprehensive nature.

The Possibility of Multiple Type Ratings
While airlines generally permit pilots to exercise one type rating at a time, it’s possible for pilots to hold multiple type ratings simultaneously. Ferry pilots, who transport planes to and from lease agreements or storage, often accumulate various type ratings.

These multiple ratings allow ferry pilots to market themselves to airlines worldwide, especially those with diverse fleets. When a pilot successfully completes a new type rating course, the rating is added to their pilot certificate. Even if they haven’t flown a particular aircraft they are type rated on for years, reactivating their “recency and currency” to fly that type legally only requires passing recurrent training.

Some aircraft share common type ratings. Aviation authorities allow for common type ratings when the systems and handling characteristics of aircraft variants are similar enough to obviate the need for additional check rides. However, operators typically provide “differences training” when their pilots fly multiple variants under a common type rating.

For example, Boeing 737 pilots with a common type rating for the 737-NG (next generation) can operate a range of variants, including the 737-800, -900, and MAXs. Airbus pilots with a common type rating can fly the A318, A319, A320, A321, and neos. Similarly, Boeing 757 and Boeing 767 pilots share a common type rating. While airlines may still assign pilots to specific sub-variants, pilots can legally operate any type they are rated for as long as they maintain currency (three landings in the preceding 90 days).

Additional Considerations
Airline captains are subject to an annual “line observation” check, separate from simulator-based recurrent training. A check pilot, occupying the right seat or the flight deck jump seat, observes the captain during a randomly selected revenue flight. This observation aims to ensure that captains adhere to company procedures during normal operations.

A select group of pilots, having dedicated their entire careers to aviation, may accumulate 10 or more type ratings. With so many ratings, the type rating listings no longer fit on a single certificate (about the size of a driver’s license), necessitating the carrying of two certificates for these experienced pilots. On the other hand, some pilots choose to fly their entire career using a single type rating. The number of type ratings a pilot acquires depends on their airline’s fleet, personal preferences, and the duration of their career. Maintaining a type rating follows an annual cycle of recurrent training.

In summary, type ratings are essential for pilots operating large aircraft, and annual training is crucial to retain these qualifications. By upholding the highest standards of proficiency, pilots ensure the safe and efficient operation of diverse fleets across the aviation industry.