Paying For A Type Rating
 

Anyone out there who has paid for there own type rating ( Not a Ryanair Pilot ) in the hope of attracting some interest from an Airline. It is something that has crossed my mind from time to time , but it does seem a huge risk. what types would you all go for - 737-???.

A good friend has done it. It worked for him. He did the rating with Astraeus and is now with easyJet. A couple of points.

1. He could afford it without going into debt.
2. He's in his mid 30's.
3. MOST IMPORTANT. This guy is one of the brightest, most switched on guys I have met. He would have made it regardless. He was not "average". His intelligence and ability to learn is second to none.
4. He had about 5-600 hours when he started the rating.

If you will go into significant debt to do a type rating without a job at the end I wouldn't do it. The market does change and can change very rapidly. What might be a great idea this month, world events (eg SARS, war, terrorist activities) can alter the aviation industry. You'll be left with a "bare bones" rating and no time on type. Ouch.

I heard a rumour that JAR (CAA for us in UK) were considering outlawing the practise of self-funded type-ratings, on safety grounds. The theory being that those companies who offer ratings, do so only after a fairly stringent check of ability and/or experience. However, anyone with sufficient cash can fund themselves.


Seems a bit unfair on those who can somehow afford a rating, but I see their point.

This is the standard reply from a Dutch TRTO

Dear XXXXX

Thank you for considering XXXX for a Type Qualification course.

In general we do not encourage private individuals to train for a type qualification course as the benefits are small if you are unable to train to the specific procedures of a company, do the circuits on the actual aircraft and are unable to do the line training with that company as well.



Says it all me thinks..


edit for errors