An FAA rating is a specific authorization added to a pilot's certificate by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that details particular flying privileges or limitations.
Understanding FAA Ratings
In the world of aviation, the FAA issues various certificates to pilots, such as the Private Pilot Certificate, Commercial Pilot Certificate, or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. While the certificate itself indicates the level of piloting proficiency, ratings are added to the certificate to specify what a pilot is qualified to fly and how they are permitted to fly.
According to the provided reference, a rating is “an authorization that, as part of a certificate, sets forth special conditions, privileges, or limitations.” Essentially, ratings build upon the base certificate, defining the specific scope of a pilot's capabilities. Ratings specify what, and/or how, the pilot is qualified to fly.
What Do Ratings Specify?
Ratings clarify the types of aircraft a pilot is authorized to operate and the conditions under which they can fly. This ensures pilots have received specific training and demonstrated proficiency for particular aircraft or flight operations, enhancing safety in the airspace.
Think of a pilot certificate as a driver's license, and ratings as endorsements on that license that allow you to drive a motorcycle, a bus, or a truck with air brakes.
Common Examples of FAA Ratings
Pilots typically acquire multiple ratings throughout their careers. Here are some common examples:
- Aircraft Category Ratings: Specify the broad classification of aircraft, such as:
- Airplane
- Rotorcraft (Helicopter, Gyroplane)
- Glider
- Lighter-than-air (Balloon, Airship)
- Aircraft Class Ratings: Specify the type within a category, such as:
- Single-engine Land
- Multi-engine Land
- Single-engine Sea
- Multi-engine Sea
- Instrument Rating: Authorizes pilots to fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), allowing flight in conditions with limited visibility (like clouds) by relying solely on aircraft instruments. This is a critical rating for many types of flying.
- Type Ratings: Required for pilots operating specific large or complex aircraft, typically those weighing over 12,500 pounds or turbojet-powered aircraft. Examples include Type Ratings for a Boeing 737 or an Airbus A320.
| Rating Type | Specifies... | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Category | Broad type of aircraft | Airplane |
| Aircraft Class | Specific configuration within a category | Single-engine Land |
| Instrument Rating | Ability to fly using instruments in low visibility | IFR capabilities |
| Type Rating | Qualification for specific large/complex model | Boeing 737, Airbus A320 |
These ratings are added to a pilot's certificate after successfully completing specific training courses and passing practical (flight) and knowledge (written) exams administered by the FAA or authorized examiners.
