How to Get a Multi-Engine Rating: Step-by-Step Guide

Curious about how to get a multi-engine rating and take your flying skills to the next level? Whether you’re aiming for airline work or just want the thrill of flying more capable aircraft, the multi-engine rating is a smart move. 

At Leopard Aviation, we guide pilots through every step—from ground lessons to engine-out drills—with flexible options that fit your goals and schedule. 

With our modern Piper Seminole and experienced instructors, getting certified feels like a natural progression, not a hurdle. Let’s make your journey into twin-engine flying smooth, exciting, and totally achievable.

1. Overview: What Is a Multi‑Engine Rating?

A multi‑engine rating is an FAA‑issued class rating add‑on that lets a certificated pilot legally fly twin-engine airplanes. Under Part 61, this rating expands your privileges—it doesn’t replace your existing license but supplements it to include aircraft with more than one engine.

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying faster, higher, or carrying more payload, this rating is your ticket. It’s also essential for pilots aiming for roles in charter flight, corporate aviation, or the airlines. The added redundancy of two engines enhances safety, and handling an engine-out scenario builds confidence and aeronautical understanding.

We train pilots at Leopard Aviation to meet multi‑engine rating requirements using the 2019 Piper PA‑44 Seminole with Garmin glass cockpit avionics. We focus on hands-on learning, comfortable pacing, and real-world techniques to help students build competence and confidence.

2. Pre‑Requisites You Must Meet

Before you begin multi‑engine training, you need:

• A valid FAA pilot certificate—private (PPL) is enough. 
• A current FAA medical certificate (3rd class or BasicMed). 
• At least some instrument proficiency—many schools require you to account for simulated or actual instrument time. 
• Be fluent in English—reading, speaking, and writing. 
• Typically, you must be at least 18 years old. 

You don’t need a written test, nor a fixed number of flight hours. What matters is meeting qualitative multi‑engine rating requirements through competent instruction and demonstrated skill. We help verify that you’re ready before scheduling a checkride with an FAA examiner.

3. Meeting FAA Requirements

According to FAR 61.63(c), to add the class rating, you must:

• Receive endorsements from an authorized instructor for multi-engine knowledge and proficiency. 
• Pass a practical test (checkride) with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, including oral and flight portions.

The practical test covers:

• Engine-out procedures across all flight phases. 
• Systems knowledge—propellers, fuel, electrical, and feathering. 
• Minimum control speed (VMC) demonstration. 
• Normal and emergency operations—takeoffs, landings, stalls, instrument approaches. 
• Decision-making and aeronautical judgment in asymmetric scenarios.

We support you from the first lessons through the checkride with structured training that mirrors FAA standards.

4. Step‑by‑Step Syllabus

Our training syllabus includes ground instruction followed by flight training. Here’s how it breaks down:

Ground Instruction

• Understanding twin‑engine systems and aerodynamics. 
• Simulating engine-out dynamics and their body effects. 
• Learning VMC, VMCA demonstration, and single-engine handling. 
• Performance planning—charts, weight/balance, fuel, climb/descent profiles. 
• Emergency procedures, checklists, and decision flow.
  

Flight Training (7–15 hours dual)

Typical objectives:

• Aircraft familiarization and systems checks. 
• Normal, short‑field, and crosswind takeoffs and landings. 
• Engine failure simulations—identify, verify, feather, and follow the emergency checklist. 
• Steep turns and stalls with one engine inoperative. 
• Single-engine IFR approaches and single-engine missed approaches. 
• VMC demonstrations at or above the intentional one-engine inoperative speed.

Review & Checkride Prep

• Oral review of procedures and systems. 
• Mock checkrides with DPE-standard scenarios. 
• Final ride to show you’re ready for the practical test.
  

We support all learners — choose an accelerated track or proceed on your own schedule.

5. Aircraft and Training Options

Primary Trainer: Piper PA‑44 Seminole

At Leopard Aviation, we use the 2019 Piper Seminole for all twin training:

• Powered by 180-hp counter-rotating Lycoming engines—eliminates “critical engine” concerns. 
• Equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi, GFC 700 autopilot, auto-feathering, TAWS, ADS-B, XM weather, and full IFR certification. 
• Retractable gear and constant-speed props make it a complex aircraft, ideal for teaching systems and emergency procedures. 
• Favorable for training—reliable, stable, widely used in aviation programs. 

That cockpit layout, advanced avionics, and flight characteristics make the Seminole a perfect stepping stone toward corporate twins or commuter aircraft.

Training Tracks

Accelerated “Snow Leopard” Week‑Long Course

• Intensive 7‑day experience. 
• 9 hours of dual flight instruction, 2 hours reserved to cover the checkride. 
• Daily ground briefings and progress checks. 
• Efficient and immersive—you fly often, learn fast, and stay immersed.

Flexible Schedule Track

• Train at your own pace. 
• Book aircraft and instructor hourly. 
• Ideal for part‑time pilots or those balancing work/life schedules. 
• Transparent billing—only pay for what you fly.

Aircraft Comparison: Seminole vs Seneca

• The Piper Seneca is more powerful and suited to cross-country or charter flying, but pricier to operate. 
• The Seminole is simpler, more cost-efficient, and equally effective for meeting the multi‑engine rating requirements. 
• We support both aircraft, but most training is done in the Seminole for accessibility and training quality.

6. Practical Test Preparation

Passing your multi‑engine checkride requires both technical knowledge and polished flying skills. Here’s how to prepare:

Oral Exam Preparation

• Asymmetrical Flight Dynamics: Explain how the loss of an engine affects yaw and what steps maintain control. Understand VMCA, VYSE, and single-engine drift. 
• Performance Planning: Calculate weight and balance, climb gradients, and single-engine service ceiling. Know how to read performance charts for your aircraft . 
• Emergency Planning: Lay out the steps for engine failure during takeoff, climb, cruise, and landing. Have a checklist and emergency decision-making procedures clearly.

Flight Evaluation Drills

• Normal Ops: Be smooth with crosswind takeoffs, landings, retractable gear, and system checks. 
• Engine-Out Simulation: Feather the prop, identify the failed engine, maintain control, turn back, and land with one engine assist. 
• VMC Demonstration: Fly at or above VMCA to show control during engine-out scenarios . 
• Stalls and Approaches: Practice stalls with one engine inoperative, steep turns, single-engine instrument approaches, and missed approaches.

Mock Checkride

• Simulated oral and flight test with your instructor. 
• Identify weak points and refine responses. 
• Ensure your decision-making and safety mindset are clear.
  

Checkride Day

• Review airplane systems, performance numbers, and emergency protocols. 
• Stay calm and confident. 
• Your instructor will ensure you’re well-prepared—if you’re ready, your instructor will schedule the checkride.

7. Advantages of the Rating

Earning your multi-engine rating opens doors and builds your confidence:

• Safety and Redundancy: Twin-engine aircraft offer a backup engine and safety in case something goes wrong with one . 
• Performance Boost: Twins offer higher speeds, greater range, and the ability to carry more payload. 
• Professional Opportunities: Multi-engine ratings are a standard requirement for charter operations, corporate travel, advanced instruction, and airline careers. 
• Advanced Systems Understanding: You’ll manage retractable gear, variable props, electrical systems, and complex avionics—skills transferable to larger or turbine aircraft. 
• Aeronautical Judgment: Handling engine failure, asymmetric flight, and emergency procedures builds advanced decision-making under pressure.

Meeting multi-engine rating requirements isn’t just about flying a different plane—it’s about expanding your skillset, increasing safety margins, and preparing for professional aviation roles.

8. How Leopard Aviation Supports You

Getting a multi-engine rating is a big step, but you don’t have to go it alone. Here’s how Leopard Aviation helps every student succeed:

Modern Training Aircraft

We train in the 2019 Piper PA‑44 Seminole, equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi glass cockpit, GFC 700 autopilot, TAWS, ADS-B In/Out, auto-feather, and full IFR capabilities . You gain hands-on experience with systems similar to what you’ll see in professional settings.

Dual Instruction Quality

Our instructors bring experience from airlines, corporate aviation, and military backgrounds. They know what FAA examiners expect and help students prepare from day one. Lessons balance technical knowledge, proficiency, and confidence-building.

Flexible Training Options

Snow Leopard accelerated program:

• Complete training in a single week with around 11 hours of dual instruction and ground briefings. 
• This immersive schedule helps students stay sharp and focus fully on multi-engine proficiency.

Self-paced option:

• Book flights when it suits you. 
• Train at a rhythm that fits your work, study, or family schedule. 
• We help you plan lessons and track progress efficiently.

Simulator Integration

Our FAA-approved simulators let you practice emergencies, procedures, and checkride scenarios on the ground before flying them. That builds muscle memory at a lower cost and reduces in-air mistakes or delays.

Transparent Pricing

Our pricing model leaves no surprises:

• Hourly rates include aircraft, fuel, and instructor time. 
• Block-hour discounts help you save as you commit more flight time. 
• No hidden fees or complex packages—just easy, understandable billing.

Checkride Support

We help you schedule with FAA DPEs and plan realistic mock checkrides. Your training includes:

• Oral prep sessions to keep you sharp on systems, performance, and emergency procedures. 
• Realistic flight practice with instructor feedback. 
• Confidence boosters before the actual test day.

They also join a community that celebrates milestones—checkrides, first flights, even shared training experiences.

Putting It All Together

Here’s a quick snapshot of the process tailored for Leopard Aviation:

1. Meet prerequisites—PPL, medical, and instrument experience. 
2. Schedule ground and flight endorsement sessions. 
3. Choose your training model: one-week block or gradual training. 
4. Learn in a modern Piper Seminole with glass avionics. 
5. Practice emergencies and procedures in-flight and in the simulator. 
6. Mock up your checkride with your instructor, iron out gaps. 
7. Take the checkride—confidence high and mind ready. 
8. Log your multi-engine rating and fly new aircraft!

Your Next Step Starts with Two Engines

If you’re wondering how to get a multi-engine rating certification, the path is clearer than you might think. It takes focused training, the right aircraft, and expert instruction. At Leopard Aviation, we make it simple with both accelerated and flexible programs in our G1000-equipped Piper Seminole. 

From your first engine-out drill to the checkride, we guide you through every stage with skill and support. Whether you’re flying for fun or preparing for the airlines, your multi-engine journey starts here—with real-world training that moves you forward. Let’s get you flying further, faster.

FAQs

1. How do I start the process of getting a multi-engine rating?

Begin by finding a flight school or instructor approved for multi-engine training. You’ll need at least a private pilot license and a current medical certificate. The training includes ground instruction, multi-engine flight time, and a practical test with an FAA-designated examiner.

2. How long does it take to get a multi-engine rating?

The rating can be completed in as little as a few days to a few weeks, depending on your availability and weather. Many pilots complete the required training in 10–15 flight hours, though this may vary based on skill level and proficiency.

3. What does the checkride involve?

The checkride includes an oral exam and a flight test with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). You’ll demonstrate knowledge of multi-engine systems, engine failure procedures, and flight maneuvers specific to twin-engine aircraft. Safety and control during simulated emergencies are key components.

4. Can I use a simulator during training?

Some schools use flight simulators to supplement multi-engine training, especially for practicing emergency procedures and systems knowledge. However, simulators cannot replace the actual flight hours required for the checkride—they’re best used as a supplement, not a substitute, for real-world experience.

5. How much does it cost to get a multi-engine rating?

Costs vary, but most students spend between $3,000–$6,000, depending on aircraft rental rates, instructor fees, and the number of flight hours needed. Twin-engine aircraft are more expensive to operate, which is reflected in the hourly training rate.