Multi-Engine Rating Requirements- What You Need to Fly Twin-Engine Aircraft
Thinking about flying bigger, faster aircraft? Understanding multi-engine rating requirements is your first move toward twin-engine operations. This rating opens doors to advanced flying and better career options, from charter flights to airline tracks.
At Leopard Aviation, we make this step clear and accessible. Whether you’re going the fast route with our Snow Leopard accelerated program or training at your own pace, we’ve got the aircraft, instructors, and support to get you there. Ready to handle more power and new procedures? We’ll help you earn your wings—times two.
What Is a Multi‑Engine Rating?
A multi-engine rating is an FAA class rating that allows a certificated pilot to fly aircraft with more than one engine. It’s not a separate license but an endorsement added to your existing pilot certificate, whether private or commercial. Earning this rating is often seen as a natural next step for pilots who want to advance their flying skills, improve safety awareness, and qualify for more job opportunities.
Under FAA Part 61, the multi-engine rating is an add-on that expands the type of aircraft you’re legally authorized to fly. It doesn’t come with a required number of flight hours, which makes it more accessible than many other advanced certifications.
Instead, the focus is on mastering the skills and procedures that are unique to multi-engine aircraft—things like managing asymmetrical thrust, understanding the concept of VMC (minimum control speed), and responding to engine-out scenarios.
This rating plays a crucial role in career development. For many, it’s a gateway to jobs in commercial operations, charter companies, and airlines. Others pursue it simply for the challenge and the thrill of flying something faster, more powerful, and with a greater safety margin due to engine redundancy.
FAA Requirements
The multi-engine rating requirements under FAR 61.63(c) are relatively simple compared to other pilot certifications. There is no set minimum for flight hours, no knowledge test, and no separate medical requirement beyond what you already have for your current pilot certificate. What the FAA does require is demonstration of proficiency in multi-engine operations during a practical test, also known as a checkride.
To qualify for the checkride, you must receive:
- Ground instruction from an authorized instructor that covers the unique systems and flight characteristics of multi-engine aircraft.
- Flight instruction in the actual multi-engine aircraft (not just in a simulator), practicing normal operations as well as emergencies, like single-engine failure during different phases of flight.
- Endorsements in your logbook verifying you’re prepared for the checkride and that you’ve been trained to the standards outlined in the FAA’s Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for multi-engine add-ons.
Once endorsed, you’ll take a checkride with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), which includes an oral exam and a practical flight evaluation. If you pass, the multi-engine class rating is added to your pilot certificate.
Typical Training Syllabus
Training for the multi-engine rating usually begins with ground instruction. This portion of the training is essential because it helps you understand how multi-engine aircraft differ from single-engine airplanes, especially in terms of performance, systems, and aerodynamics.
Topics include:
- Engine-out procedures and single-engine performance
- VMC and why it matters during asymmetric thrust
- Feathering propellers
- Fuel, electrical, and hydraulic systems
- Engine failure recognition and decision-making
- Emergency operations and checklists
Once you move to the flight portion of the training, you’ll typically complete between 7 to 15 hours of dual instruction, though some pilots may need more or less depending on their previous experience and proficiency.
Flight training includes:
- Familiarization with aircraft systems and controls
- Normal and short-field takeoffs and landings
- Flight with simulated engine failures
- Instrument approaches with one engine inoperative
- Stall recognition and recovery
- VMC demonstrations and recovery
Much of your time will be spent dealing with the kinds of real-world scenarios you might encounter in a multi-engine aircraft. You’ll practice how to identify an engine failure, maintain directional control, and safely complete the flight—skills that are not just useful, but potentially lifesaving.
If you’re going the accelerated route, you can complete your training in as little as one week. Other pilots may spread it out over several weeks or months, especially if they are training part-time. Both approaches work—the key is being consistent and focused during lessons.
Choosing the Right Aircraft
One of the most important decisions in your multi-engine training is the type of aircraft you’ll fly. Most flight schools use purpose-built training aircraft that are known for stability, reliability, and forgiving handling characteristics.
The Piper Seminole, for example, is widely used across the United States as a multi-engine trainer. It’s powered by two counter-rotating Lycoming engines, which help cancel out critical engine effects, making it an excellent learning platform. It also has retractable gear, constant-speed props, and a full suite of avionics—everything you’d expect from a complex aircraft used in professional environments.
Students benefit from the Piper Seminole’s straightforward systems and responsive handling. Its cockpit layout and flight behavior make it easy to learn procedures and get comfortable with emergency drills. Some training aircraft also come equipped with Garmin G1000 glass cockpit avionics, GPS navigation, and autopilot—making the transition to commercial aircraft smoother for aspiring career pilots.
While aircraft like the Piper Seneca or Beechcraft Duchess are also used, the Seminole remains a favorite due to its reliability, predictability, and cost-effectiveness. When choosing a flight school for your rating, it’s worth confirming what aircraft you’ll be flying and what avionics it has. These details can influence both your training experience and how well-prepared you’ll be for future roles in charter or airline environments.
Training Options & Cost
When it comes to scheduling your training, there are generally two main options: accelerated and flexible/self-paced. Both approaches are valid and depend on your time, budget, and learning style.
Accelerated Training
This option is perfect for pilots who want to finish quickly, often within one week. It typically includes:
- 7 days of training
- 8 to 10 hours of dual flight instruction
- Ground instruction and briefings
- A checkride scheduled at the end
Accelerated training can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 depending on aircraft rental rates, instructor time, and local DPE fees. It’s a popular option for pilots who already hold commercial licenses or need the rating for employment.
Flexible or Self-Paced Training
If you’re balancing work, school, or family, a self-paced program allows you to train when it fits your schedule. You pay by the hour and work toward the checkride at your own pace.
Hourly rates vary based on the aircraft and instructor, but many students complete their training with a total investment of $4,000 to $7,000 depending on the number of hours required. It’s a great choice for pilots who prefer to spread out costs or who want to absorb knowledge gradually.
Advantages of the Rating
Earning your multi-engine rating unlocks a new tier of flight opportunities and builds confidence in ways that single-engine flying cannot.
Key advantages include:
- Safety through redundancy: Two engines provide a backup in case one fails, giving you time and options to return safely.
- Access to faster, more capable aircraft: Twin-engine planes typically cruise at higher speeds, carry more passengers, and offer longer range.
- Career progression: If you’re pursuing a career in charter aviation, corporate transport, or the airlines, a multi-engine rating is non-negotiable. It’s also a requirement for most turbine or jet type ratings.
- Broadened skills: Understanding complex aircraft systems, handling asymmetric thrust, and flying with one engine out takes your airmanship to the next level.
Ultimately, a multi-engine rating isn’t just another box to check—it’s an investment in your safety, skills, and career. Whether you’re chasing a dream job or simply want the confidence that comes with mastering advanced aircraft, meeting the multi-engine rating requirements is a milestone worth pursuing.
Ready to Take On Two Engines?
Understanding multi-engine rating requirements is the first step toward unlocking a faster, more powerful flying experience. Whether you want to boost your resume or fly more advanced aircraft, the transition starts with the right training.
At Leopard Aviation, we make that process smooth and tailored—offering both accelerated and flexible programs using our Garmin-equipped Piper Seminole.
From your first engine-out drill to your checkride, we’re with you every step. If you’re ready to add a new set of wings to your certificate, we’re ready to help you make it happen. Let’s fly further, together.
FAQs
1. What is a multi-engine rating?
A multi-engine rating is an additional certification that allows a pilot to operate aircraft with more than one engine. It builds on an existing private or commercial pilot certificate and involves flight and ground training focused on multi-engine operations, systems, and engine-out procedures.
2. What are the prerequisites for getting a multi-engine rating?
You must hold at least a private pilot certificate. While no minimum flight hours are required by the FAA, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in multi-engine aircraft systems and emergency handling. Some schools recommend 10–20 hours of flight time for adequate preparation.
3. Is there a written test for the multi-engine rating?
No, there’s no separate FAA written test for an add-on multi-engine rating. You’ll be evaluated through a practical checkride with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), which includes an oral exam and flight test focused on multi-engine flight skills and safety procedures.
4. Can you earn a multi-engine rating during commercial pilot training?
Yes, many students integrate the multi-engine rating into their commercial pilot training. This allows them to fulfill commercial certificate requirements while also gaining experience in twin-engine aircraft, which can improve job prospects with regional airlines or charter operators.
5. Does a multi-engine rating expire?
No, the rating does not expire. However, to act as Pilot in Command of a multi-engine aircraft, you must maintain currency—meaning regular flight experience and a current flight review. Inactivity may require refresher training before returning to multi-engine flying.