Boeing 737 Type Rating: Cost, Requirements & Training Centers

What is a Boeing 737 Type Rating?  

A type rating is a mandatory certification that qualifies pilots to operate a specific aircraft model, ensuring they meet regulatory training and safety standards. The Boeing 737 is one of the most common type ratings among commercial pilots, often serving as an entry point into airline operations before progressing to larger or more complex aircraft.

The Boeing 737 is a narrow-body aircraft renowned for its reliability and fuel-efficiency, making it a preferred choice for short and medium haul flights. With different generations such as the Classic (CL), Next Generation (NG), and MAX still actively flown by carriers worldwide, pilots can transition between models with a difference course rather than a full type rating. This makes the Boeing 737 type rating a valuable choice for commercial pilots.

Obtaining a Boeing 737 type rating is a strategic move for pilots across varied regions including Europe, North America and South Asia, given their extensive use in these regions. This certification not only broadens employment prospects but also positions pilots for advancement in a competitive industry.

Why the Boeing 737 Remains a Major Training Pathway?

Boeing describes the 737 Next Generation family as a single-aisle series designed with maximum commonality, greater operational flexibility, advanced navigation and situational awareness features, and improved takeoff and landing performance. For pilots researching a 737 type rating, that makes the aircraft family a relevant pathway for high-frequency airline operations and broad fleet applicability.

How to Get a B737 Type Rating?

Pilots must follow a structured process to obtain a B737 type rating, which includes meeting prerequisites, completing training, and passing assessments.

Pre-Requisites:

• Valid Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) or Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) (as per EASA or DGCA requirements).

• As per EASA guidelines: Theoretical ATPL is required for CPL holders.

• As per DGCA India guidelines: A DGCA-issued Commercial Pilot License (CPL) must be valid during the course tenure.  

• As per FAA guidelines: An FAA valid CPL or ATPL is required.

Minimum Hours as Pilot in Command (PIC):

• As per EASA guidelines: Minimum 70 hours for the first Type Rating (TR).

• As per DGCA India guidelines: Minimum 100 hours as PIC.

• As per FAA guidelines: No fixed minimum hours, but a pilot must hold at least a CPL with minimum of 250 flight hours. Additionally, obtaining an ATP Certificate, which requires 1,500 flight hours, is necessary to act as a PIC.

Instrument Rating (IR):

• As per EASA guidelines: Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (ME-IR) Certificate of Completion with Performance-Based Navigation (PBN).

• As per DGCA India guidelines: Instrument Rating (IR) for single-engine aircraft.

• As per FAA guidelines: FAA multi-engine instrument rating.

Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) Certificate of Completion:

• As per EASA guidelines: required for first Type Rating under EASA regulations

• As per DGCA India guidelines: required for multi-engine aircraft.

• As per FAA guidelines: Not mandatory for FAA type ratings.

• Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT): Applicable for the first Type Rating under EASA. For FAA and DGCA it is not a strict requirement and is based on the needs and requirements of the airline.  

• Medical Certification: Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate as per EASA or DGCA standards. Valid Class 1, 2, or 3 Medical certificate in case of FAA.

• English Language Proficiency (ELP): Level 4 proficiency (as required by EASA, DGCA and FAA).

Training Process:

Before selecting your B737 type rating, you need to evaluate and understand the process involved in the training.

• Ground School Training: Theoretical knowledge and aircraft systems training take place via online training platforms, offering flexibility and ease in training.

• Simulator Sessions: This involves getting hands-on B737 simulator training in both Fixed Based Simulator as well as Full-Flight Simulator. Pilots get to apply the theoretical knowledge into practice and enhance their proficiency by replicating real operational scenarios, emergency procedures, and complex flight environments.

Understanding the Key Differences between EASA, DGCA and FAA B737 type rating

To obtain a Boeing 737 type rating in India, pilots must enroll in a training program based on DGCA guidelines, complete ground school and simulator training, and pass DGCA licensing exams. If you are wondering how to get boeing 737 type rating​ in India, selecting a recognized training provider is key. To learn more about the step-by-step process, check out our detailed blog here.

How to Choose a Boeing 737 Training Center?

The right Boeing 737 training center should match both your regulatory pathway and the specific aircraft family you intend to train on. Beyond the simulator itself, the overall environment should support a clear, efficient and well-organised training experience.

• ‍Approval and Authority Fit: Your training center should align with the authority under which you plan to qualify, ensuring that the course structure, records and overall training pathway are consistent with the relevant regulatory framework.

• 737 Family or Generation: It is important to confirm that the training environment matches the Boeing 737 family or generation most relevant to your objective, whether your focus is on a legacy, current-generation or newer fleet context.

• Simulator Qualification: The simulator standard should support professional airline training and reflect the level of qualification expected for structured training on a commercial single-aisle aircraft.

• Training Location and Logistics: A well-chosen location should offer more than simulator access alone. Accessibility, local support, accommodation and overall ease of organisation can make a meaningful difference to the quality of the training experience.

Where to Get the Best Boeing 737 Type Rating?

Selecting a DGCA, EASA, or FAA-approved training facility is crucial to ensure compliance with airline industry regulations and to provide pilots with the necessary training for seamless integration into commercial airline operations.

Best Locations for Boeing 737 Type Rating:

• Europe: Europe is an excellent destination for EASA certified B737 type rating programs. It offers modernized facilities, EASA approved training standards, and strong airline partnerships for international career opportunities.

• India: India provides cost-effective, DGCA-certified training programs, catering to pilots who are aspiring to join Indian airlines.

• USA: The United States is a premier destination for FAA approved type rating training, offering access to advanced technology, experienced instructors, and globally recognized certifications.

Validity and Maintenance of a B737 Type Rating

A B737 type rating typically remains valid for one year. To keep the type rating active, regulatory authorities like the DGCA and FAA require pilots to undergo recurrent training and proficiency checks.

A B737 type rating validity depends on regulatory requirements:

• In the case of an EASA approved B737 type rating, pilots must comply with recurrent training and proficiency checks per EASA regulations.

• DGCA mandates recurrent training and simulator checks annually, to keep the type rating active.

• FAA requires periodic proficiency checks under FAR Part 121 or 135.

• Failure to renew a type rating on time requires additional training to regain currency.

To maintain certification, pilots can enroll in B737 online training refresher courses and simulator training sessions.

Why Simaero is a Leading Boeing 737 Type Rating Provider

Simaero is a leading provider of B737 type rating training, offering world-class facilities and globally recognized certifications. We offer B737 type ratings which are as per DCGA guidelines and EASA approved.

• Flexible Training Options: All theoretical courses are self-paced and conducted through our e-learning platform, Wisdom which is available 24/7.

• Advanced Simulators: Modern Level D Full-Flight B737 simulator training for real-world proficiency.

• Expert Instructors: Highly experienced trainers ensuring top-tier pilot training.

• Training Location: As a major aviation hub that is easily accessible from around the world, Paris provides an excellent setting for Boeing 737 type rating training.

Start your journey toward flying the Boeing 737 with a globally accredited type rating program. Explore our B737 Type rating courses today and take your pilot career to new heights!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Boeing 737 a common type rating pathway?

Boeing highlights the 737 NG family’s commonality,operational flexibility and route access advantages, which help explain why it remains a major aircraft family in airline training discussions.

What should I verify before starting a first Boeing 737 type rating?

Under EASA Part-FCL, pilots should verify PIC experience, IR(A), ATPL theory status, multi-engine experience and MCC status before beginning a first multi-pilot airplane type rating.

Is family or generation context important for Boeing 737 training?

Yes. Understanding the relevant Boeing 737 family or generation helps frame the training path more accurately before you select a course.

Does MCC matter before a first multi-pilot type rating?

Yes. Under EASA rules, MCC is one of the prerequisites for a first multi-pilot airplane type rating unless the course is combined with MCC.

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