Type Rating Course in India for Pilots – The #1 Ultimate Guide

If you’re a newly licensed commercial pilot, your next step is clear: you need an approved type rating course in India for pilots to qualify for airline jobs. Without a type rating, your CPL alone won’t get you into the cockpit of an Airbus A320, Boeing 737, or any commercial jet.

In India, type rating is a non-negotiable requirement for operating airline fleet aircraft. It’s a specialized certification that proves you’re trained to handle a specific aircraft type—both in simulators and real-world scenarios.

This guide walks you through everything: how these courses work, what they cost, which aircraft are available, who can apply, and the best training centers to consider in 2025.

Why is Type Rating Course in India for Pilots Required?

A type rating is a mandatory certification that authorizes a pilot to operate a specific kind of aircraft—usually larger jets like the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737. While your CPL proves you can fly, the type rating proves you can fly a particular machine at the commercial level.

In India, this certification is governed by both DGCA and ICAO regulations. If you’re aiming for an airline job, there’s no skipping this step.

Even if you’ve completed your 200+ flying hours and passed all DGCA theory exams, you can’t legally fly for a commercial carrier until your license is endorsed with the type of aircraft you’re trained on.

Most aspiring airline pilots in India pursue type ratings on one of three aircraft:

Airbus A320 – the most in-demand fleet type for domestic carriers
Boeing 737 NG/MAX – ideal for both Indian and international job markets
ATR 72-600 – popular for regional carriers and charter operations

A type rating isn’t an upgrade—it’s a requirement. No endorsement means no airline cockpit.

Who’s Eligible for Type Rating Course in India for Pilots?

Before applying for type rating courses in India for pilots, you need to meet a few non-negotiable requirements—most of which are built on the foundation of your CPL.

Here’s what you’ll need:

A valid DGCA-issued Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
An active DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate
If your CPL is from outside India, you’ll need to convert your license first through DGCA exams and documentation
Some academies may ask for a Multi-Engine Rating and completed Instrument Rating (IR) before enrollment
Certain training centers also prefer candidates with a minimum number of logged flight hours or simulator experience

Keep in mind: while DGCA doesn’t mandate exact flight hours beyond your CPL, some airline-backed training programs do.

Bottom line: you can start your type rating training as soon as you meet the basic DGCA and school-specific criteria—but the stronger your foundation, the smoother the process.

Aircraft You Can Get Type Rated On in India

Choosing the right aircraft for your type rating is more than a preference—it’s a strategic career move. The aircraft you train on determines your airline eligibility, job prospects, and even where in the world you can work.

Here’s a look at the most common aircraft types offered by type rating course in India for pilots, along with why they matter:

Aircraft Model	Why Pilots Choose It	Operated By
Airbus A320	Most in-demand narrow-body aircraft globally; high domestic airline demand	IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, Akasa Air, AirAsia India
Boeing 737 NG/MAX	Popular for international conversion and low-cost carriers	SpiceJet, Air India Express, FlyDubai, Ryanair
ATR 72-600	Regional twin turboprop; lower cost, good for hour-building and entry roles	Alliance Air, FlyBig, IndiGo (regional ops)
Embraer E190/195	Used by niche operators and private charter companies	Air India (select routes), regional VIP operators

Most Indian pilots who aim for airline jobs in India or the Middle East pursue A320 or B737 type ratings.

Type Rating Course Fees in India: What to Expect in 2025

The investment for type rating can vary depending on the aircraft, location, and whether the course is bundled with job support. Below is a cost breakdown for type rating programs commonly offered in India:

Course Component	Estimated Cost (INR)
A320/B737 Type Rating Package	₹20 – ₹30 lakhs
Simulator (Full Flight) Sessions	Included (30–40 hours)
Classroom Training & Materials	₹1 – ₹2 lakhs
DGCA Fees + License Endorsement	₹50,000 – ₹1 lakh
Living Expenses (if relocating)	₹1 – ₹2 lakhs extra

Training providers may offer discounted packages or flexible payment plans—but always confirm what’s included in the quoted price.

Some programs charge extra for re-sits, instructor briefings, or additional sim time, so make sure the agreement is in writing.

How Long Does Type Rating Training Take in India?

Most type rating course in India for pilots are designed to be completed within 4 to 6 weeks of full-time commitment. However, the actual time you spend can vary based on several factors.

You’ll begin with ground school—covering aircraft systems, limitations, checklists, and procedures. That’s followed by simulator training, where you’ll log 30 to 40 hours in a full-motion simulator designed to mimic the exact aircraft.

Expect delays if:

There’s a backlog in simulator scheduling
You’re part of a larger batch or cadet intake
Weather affects training slots (especially for final checks)
You combine your course with airline onboarding or line training

Some pilots finish in under a month; others may need two if integrated into airline-ready tracks.

Step-by-Step: Type Rating Course in India for Pilots

Starting a type rating program isn’t complicated—but it’s important to follow the right sequence. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how most DGCA-approved type rating course in India for pilots are structured:

Step 1: Choose the Aircraft Wisely – Pick an aircraft type that aligns with your airline goal. In India, the A320 remains the top choice for both domestic and international job seekers.

Step 2: Enroll in a DGCA-Approved Institute – Select a training center with strong placement feedback, certified instructors, and up-to-date full-flight simulators.

Step 3: Complete Ground School – You’ll go through detailed technical training, aircraft systems knowledge, normal and abnormal procedures, and operational briefings.

Step 4: Begin Simulator Training – Log the required 30–40 hours in a Level D full-flight simulator under instructor supervision. Each session simulates real airline scenarios.

Step 5: Pass the License Skill Test (LST) – This is your final check with a DGCA-approved examiner. It’s a full-scenario simulation flight to test handling, decision-making, and systems knowledge.

Step 6: Get Your License Endorsed by DGCA – After passing the LST, submit your documents for endorsement of your new type rating on your CPL.

Step 7: Apply for Jobs or Continue to Line Training – Once your license is updated, you’re officially type rated. You can now apply for First Officer positions or enter structured cadet or internship programs.

From the first briefing to final approval, this journey turns you from a CPL holder into a cockpit-ready First Officer candidate.

Will Type Rating Guarantee You a Job in India?

Completing one of the top type rating course in India for pilots is a critical milestone—but it doesn’t automatically land you in the right seat of an airliner. What it does is make you eligible.

Most airlines won’t even consider an applicant without a valid type rating on their active fleet (especially for Airbus A320 and Boeing 737). That’s why many aspiring First Officers complete their CPL, then invest in type rating before applying.

Here’s what to expect:

Type rating is essential—but not a job offer. It qualifies you for interviews, but selection depends on simulator performance, soft skills, and airline demand.

Some flight schools offer job-assist pathways, mock interviews, or line-training tie-ins with regional airlines. These don’t guarantee placement but can be a strong advantage.

Cadet programs with carriers like IndiGo or Air India Express may include type rating as part of a bundled package—but they’re highly competitive and selective.

Most airlines prefer pilots with a fresh type rating (within 12 months) and clean simulator records.

Pro tip: Focus on schools that not only train you—but also prepare you for interviews, CRM assessments, and LOFT-based sim checks.

In the Indian market, CPL + Type Rating is the true minimum standard to be considered for the cockpit.

Conclusion

Finishing your CPL is a milestone—but it’s your type rating that unlocks the cockpit of real airline jets. It’s not just a legal requirement; it’s a rite of passage for every commercial pilot stepping into the professional aviation world.

The best type rating course in India for pilots combine technical training, full-motion simulators, and operational readiness. Some go further, offering CRM coaching, mock assessments, and even airline-facing interview prep.

Don’t choose a program just because it’s fast or cheap—choose one that sets you up for long-term success, backed by DGCA approvals, experienced instructors, and aircraft-specific expertise.

Ready to get rated and fly commercial? Start with Florida Flyers Flight Academy India—a trusted name in CPL and type rating guidance with a proven pathway to cockpit success.

FAQs: Type Rating Course in India for Pilots

Question	Answer
Is a type rating required immediately after CPL?	Yes—if you plan to apply to airlines flying jets like the A320 or B737.
What aircraft type should I choose for type rating?	The Airbus A320 is the most versatile and widely used across India.
What’s the cost of type rating courses in India for pilots?	₹20 to ₹30 lakhs depending on the aircraft, simulator time, and school.
Can I complete my type rating abroad and use it in India?	Yes, as long as the course is ICAO-compliant and DGCA approves the provider.
Will schools guarantee airline placement after type rating?	No. Some offer job support, but job offers aren’t guaranteed.
Do I need a type rating for smaller turboprops or trainers?	No. Type rating is only required for larger jets and transport category aircraft.
Can new CPL holders enroll in type rating right away?	Yes. However, having an Instrument Rating and ME rating is often preferred.

Contact the Florida Flyers Flight Academy Team today at 91 (0) 1171 816622 to learn more about the Private Pilot Ground School Course.