Class rating

Lore & Background

In aviation, a class rating is distinguished from a type rating, which is specified if a particular aircraft requires additional specialized training beyond the scope of initial license and aircraft class training. Which aircraft require a type rating is decided by the local aviation authority. Almost all single-engine piston (SEP) or multi-engine piston (MEP) single pilot aircraft can be flown without a type rating, but are covered by a class rating instead.

In the United States, there are seven categories of aircraft, which contain the following classes. Class ratings may have limitations placed upon them. For example, in the United States, if a pilot being examined for a multi-engine rating does not demonstrate the ability to control an aircraft under asymmetric thrust, their multi-engine rating will be endorsed as 'Limited-to-Center Thrust'. In the European Union, a multi-engine centreline thrust aeroplane is considered a single-engine aeroplane when being used for an instrument rating skill test.

Reader's Guide

The class rating system is significant because it streamlines pilot certification for common aircraft groups, reducing the need for separate type ratings for most single-engine piston and multi-engine piston aircraft. This allows pilots to operate a wide range of aircraft with a single class rating, provided they have the necessary training common to that class. The distinction between class and type ratings is determined by local aviation authorities, with the United States requiring type ratings for all turbojets and for aircraft with a maximum take-off weight over 12,500 pounds. The system also accommodates limitations, such as the 'Limited-to-Center Thrust' endorsement in the US for pilots who cannot demonstrate control under asymmetric thrust. This regulatory framework ensures that pilots receive appropriate training while avoiding unnecessary duplication for aircraft that share operational characteristics.