Can Airline Pilots Fly Different Types of Planes?

Not always. For example, if you work for Southwest Airlines, you might be limited to flying Airbus aircraft, and switching to another type would be a challenge. This article elucidates the intricacies of type ratings, training requirements, and the differences in pilot certificates in the aviation industry.

The Importance of Specialized Training

In the U.S. and most parts of the world, pilots receive 'certificates' rather than licenses, each specializing in a specific category, class, and type of aircraft. For airplanes heavier than 12,500 pounds and jets, a 'type rating' is mandatory. This rating is essential for operating certain advanced aircraft and can be quite costly due to the extensive training involved.

Understanding Certificates and Ratings

A 'category' broadly classifies aircraft into types like airplanes, rotary-wing aircraft, or dirigibles. The 'class' further categorizes within each type—single-engine, multi-engine, or for specific configurations like centerline thrust. The 'type' specifically denotes the make and model of the aircraft.

Light Aircraft and Type Rating

A pilot certified to fly light aircraft can generally pilot other aircraft of the same light type, such as a single-engine land plane moving from a Cessna 172 to a larger Cessna 210. While it is legal to fly a plane of the same type for brief periods without an instructor, most airlines and insurance companies mandate additional training with an experienced pilot before allowing passengers to travel.

The Need for Type Rating

A pilot wishing to fly a Boeing 737, for instance, would need a type rating to operate an Airbus A340. This rigorous process involves significant training and can cost upwards of $50,000. Acquiring a type rating for an airliner may take a month, depending on the aircraft and the pilot's experience.

Maintaining Certification

Certificates are valid as long as the pilot maintains a current medical certificate, logs a bi-annual flight review, and has sufficient recent flight experience for day, night, or instrument flights. The core skills of flying can be relatively straightforward. However, managing a complex aircraft and performing critical maneuvers require specialized training and experience.

Differences in Certificates

Pilot certificates can be categorized as Private, Commercial, or Airline Transport. These vary in their eligibility and skills required. A Private pilot cannot fly for hire and requires at least 40 hours of flying time, with an Instrument rating adding another 40 hours. Commercial pilots can fly for hire in privately owned aircraft and may charter flights with at least 500 hours of experience. Airline Transport pilots can serve as the pilot in command for a scheduled carrier with at least 1,500 hours of flying time.

Examples and Requirements

John Travolta is an example of a private pilot with an Instrument and Multi-engine rating who owns and operates several jets, including a Boeing 737 and a 707. He also spent significant time and money to acquire type ratings for these aircraft, including attending Qantas' academy to receive additional training.

Conclusion

While the core skills of aviation are relatively universal, the specialized training required to operate different types of aircraft cannot be overlooked. The industry places a strong emphasis on type ratings to ensure that pilots are adequately prepared and certified to handle the intricacies of operating complex aircraft.