A type rating is the final certification you need before flying passengers on commercial aircraft. After completing your ATPL training and MCC course, the type rating qualifies you to operate a specific aircraft family—most commonly the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737.
In 2025, type rating costs range from €14,000 at Eastern European schools to €35,000+ in Western Europe. With Europe's ongoing pilot shortage expected to reach 19,000 pilots by 2032 according to Oliver Wyman, investing in a type rating opens doors to strong career opportunities across the continent.
What is a Type Rating?
Under EASA regulations, any aircraft over 5,700 kg requires pilots to hold a specific type rating. This certification proves you understand the aircraft's systems, can handle normal and abnormal procedures, and can operate safely in a multi-crew environment.
The good news: one type rating covers an entire aircraft family. An A320 type rating lets you fly the A318, A319, A320, A321, and A320neo variants. A B737 NG rating covers the 737-600 through 737-900 series, with a short difference course for the 737 MAX.
Prerequisites for Type Rating
You need a valid CPL(A) with ATPL theory credit, Multi-Engine Instrument Rating, Class 1 Medical, MCC certificate, and ICAO English Level 4 minimum. Most airlines also require completed UPRT training.
A320 vs B737: Which to Choose?
Both aircraft dominate European aviation. Your choice should align with your target airlines rather than personal preference—you'll likely fly both during your career anyway.
| Factor | Airbus A320 | Boeing 737 |
|---|---|---|
| Major European Operators | easyJet, Wizz Air, Vueling, Lufthansa, Air France | Ryanair, TUI, Norwegian, SunExpress |
| Control Philosophy | Fly-by-wire, sidestick | Conventional controls, yoke |
| Cost Range (Europe) | €14,000 - €35,000 | €16,000 - €34,000 |
| Family Coverage | A318/A319/A320/A321/Neo | 737-600 to 900, MAX (with diff) |
| Market Share Europe | ~55% narrowbody | ~40% narrowbody |
Training Structure
Type rating training follows a structured progression from theory through simulator to aircraft. Most programs take 4-6 weeks, though some accelerated courses complete in 3 weeks.
Ground School (60-80 hours)
Aircraft systems, performance, normal/abnormal procedures. CBT pre-study available. 9-14 days classroom with type-rated instructors.
Simulator Training (32-40 hours)
8 sessions × 4 hours in Level D FFS. Train in crews of two. Progress from basic handling to emergencies. License Skill Test with examiner.
Base Training (4-6 landings)
Actual aircraft landings. 4 landings if 500+ hours on similar type, otherwise 6. Costs €5,000-€10,000 extra (sometimes included).
Type Rating Issued
License endorsed with aircraft type. Valid for 12 months. Ready for airline line training as First Officer.
Type Rating Costs by Region
Costs vary dramatically across Europe. Eastern European schools offer identical EASA certification at 40-50% lower prices than Western Europe. The savings come from lower operating costs—not lower quality.
| Region / Provider | A320 Cost | B737 Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAA Training (Lithuania) | From €14,000 | From €14,000 | Job interview prep included |
| SmartLynx (Latvia) | €15,000-€18,000 | B737 MAX available | 96% graduate employment |
| GTA Spain (Madrid) | €20,000-€25,000 | €20,000-€25,000 | VR training included |
| Ryanair / AFA | — | €30,000 | Direct job pathway |
| CAE / L3Harris | €30,000-€45,000 | €30,000-€45,000 | Premium facilities |
Save on Type Rating
Look for package deals combining MCC + Type Rating. Some schools offer €5,000-€8,000 discounts when booking together. Also check for seasonal promotions—many schools offer 10-20% off during quieter months.
Career Progression After Type Rating
Your type rating opens the door to First Officer positions. From there, career progression follows a predictable path based on experience and airline growth. European pilot salaries have increased significantly due to the ongoing pilot shortage.
| Position | Experience Required | Salary Range | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior First Officer | Type rating + line check | €35,000 - €55,000 | Year 1 |
| Senior First Officer | 500+ hours on type | €55,000 - €85,000 | Years 2-4 |
| Captain (Short-haul) | 3,000+ hours, command course | €90,000 - €155,000 | Years 5-8 |
| Captain (Long-haul) | 5,000+ hours, widebody rating | €150,000 - €250,000+ | Years 10+ |
Choosing a Training Provider
Select your type rating provider based on career goals, budget, and job market access. Consider these factors when comparing schools:
What to Look For
- • EASA ATO certification (verify on EASA website)
- • Level D FFS simulator qualification
- • Instructor airline experience
- • Airline partnerships or cadet connections
- • Graduate employment statistics
- • Flexible payment options
Red Flags
- • Prices significantly below market (€10,000)
- • No clear ATO certification displayed
- • Unable to provide graduate references
- • Outdated simulator equipment
- • Hidden fees for materials or exams
- • No airline assessment preparation
Compare Type Rating Providers
Browse schools offering A320 and B737 type ratings across Europe