Licenses and Ratings for specific Countries
Oct 16, 2024
When it comes to aviation, pilot licenses and ratings are essential for defining a pilot’s qualifications and the types of flying they’re allowed to do. Additionally, there are key differences in the licensing processes between the U.S. and Europe, which is important for those interested in flying internationally. Here’s a comprehensive look at how these licenses and ratings work, the general sequence of obtaining them, and how rules differ across regions.
What’s the Difference Between a Pilot License and a Rating?
In aviation, licenses are certifications that allow a pilot to act as pilot-in-command (PIC) under specific conditions, such as a license for non-commercial (Private Pilot License, or PPL) or commercial flying (Commercial Pilot License, or CPL). Licenses can be thought of as the foundation of a pilot’s legal ability to fly.
On the other hand, ratings are additions to these licenses that grant specialized privileges. For instance:
An Instrument Rating (IR) allows a pilot to fly in reduced visibility or weather conditions using only the aircraft’s instruments.
A Multi-Engine Rating (ME) enables a pilot to fly multi-engine planes.
While the license is the core qualification, ratings provide pilots with specific skills and broaden the types of flights they can perform.
Sequence of Obtaining Licenses and Ratings
Most pilots follow a structured pathway, progressing from the foundational private license to advanced commercial and airline certifications. Here’s the typical order:
Private Pilot License (PPL): The PPL is usually the first step for most pilots, allowing them to fly for leisure or personal reasons but not for hire. Achieving a PPL requires both flight training and a written knowledge exam, as well as a flight test.
Instrument Rating (IR): Once pilots hold a PPL, many choose to pursue an IR, which allows them to fly in adverse weather using only instruments for navigation. This rating requires additional training, a written knowledge exam, and a practical test.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL): For those who want to fly for compensation or hire, a CPL is the next step. This license has more rigorous training and flight-hour requirements, along with a written exam and a flight test.
Multi-Engine Rating (ME): The ME rating is typically added after obtaining a CPL and does not usually require a written test. However, it does require specialized training and a flight test to demonstrate proficiency in multi-engine aircraft.
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL): The ATPL is the highest license level and is mandatory for captains of commercial airliners. To earn an ATPL, a pilot must meet significant experience requirements and pass a series of written exams and a demanding practical flight test.
Written Exams and Practical Tests
Most licenses and ratings require written exams, except for a few specialized ratings like the Multi-Engine Rating, which generally doesn’t need one. For instance:
PPL, IR, and CPL all require written exams in addition to practical flight tests.
The ATPL license typically involves several written exams covering advanced topics in navigation, aircraft systems, and regulations, as well as a practical test.
Differences Between U.S. (FAA) and Europe (EASA) Training Paths
The licensing process for pilots differs between the U.S. and Europe, with each region having its own regulatory body—the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) in the U.S. and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) in Europe.
In the U.S. (FAA), the licensing path is often progressive and modular, allowing pilots to gain licenses and ratings step-by-step:
Most pilots start with the PPL, followed by the Instrument Rating (IR) and then the CPL.
If the goal is to work for an airline, the pilot will later pursue the ATPL, which includes written exams and a practical test for captains.
This modular approach gives U.S. pilots more flexibility to accumulate flight hours and earn certifications over time.
In Europe (EASA), there are some notable differences, particularly for those pursuing an airline career. European pilots often take a more structured, sequential approach:
Pilots pursuing a professional career typically begin with the PPL.
After obtaining their PPL, they prepare for the ATPL theory exams, which are typically completed as a series of written tests before advancing to more extensive flight training.
To complete the requirements for a CPL (Commercial Pilot License) in Europe, pilots finish the necessary flight hours and skills training after passing the ATPL theory exams.
In European integrated programs (e.g., professional flight schools), students may complete most or all of their theoretical knowledge at the beginning of their training, including ATPL exams, and then finish the practical training in two distinct phases: an initial set of flight hours and then more advanced training leading up to CPL and ATPL.
International Flying and License Validity
When it comes to flying internationally, licenses are typically only valid for aircraft registered in the same jurisdiction as the issuing authority. For example:
A pilot with an FAA license can only operate N-registered aircraft (U.S.-registered planes).
An EASA license allows flying only D-registered (German), ES-registered (Spanish), or other EASA-member aircraft.
If a pilot with an FAA license wants to fly an EASA-registered aircraft, or vice versa, they must go through a process of license conversion or validation. The steps involved in conversion vary widely:
Some conversions are relatively simple, involving just a bit of paperwork.
Other conversions are more complex and may require taking additional written exams, skill tests, or even completing additional flight hours.
The exact requirements depend on the agreements (or lack thereof) between the aviation authorities in different regions.
