Type Rated Pilot Jobs

A type rating is an FAA or EASA certification that qualifies a pilot to act as pilot-in-command of a specific aircraft model. Type ratings are required for all turbojet aircraft and aircraft weighing over 12,500 pounds, and typically involve ground school, simulator training, and checkride completion.

Yes, type rated pilots typically earn higher salaries due to their specialized training and immediate operational value. Salaries can range from $80,000-150,000 for regional carriers to $200,000-400,000+ for major international airlines, depending on experience and aircraft type.

Most airlines require current and valid type ratings for immediate employment. However, some operators may consider pilots with expired ratings if they demonstrate recent experience and are willing to complete recurrent training. Check specific job requirements as policies vary by employer.

Currently, narrow-body type ratings like A320 family and Boeing 737 are highly sought after due to fleet growth. Wide-body ratings for A330, A350, Boeing 777, and 787 are also valuable for international operations and typically command premium compensation.

Pilots with current type ratings and recent experience often have shortened hiring timelines since they can bypass initial type rating training. The process can take 2-8 weeks depending on background checks, medical clearance, and the airline's training schedule for differences training and line checks.