Obtain your multi-engine rating before your PPL expires.

So you already have your single-engine instrument rating and want to advance further as a pilot by adding a multi-engine rating.

So let’s dig deeper so you can know every do step or don’t step!

How to obtain a multi-engine rating as a pilot?

To successfully gain the multi-engine rating, you must earn the required training from an authorized instructor or authorized training school. It means that you already have a Private Pilot License and want to add a multi-engine rating just like the instrument rating. Adding the multi-engine rating means you train to fly multi-engine aircraft after obtaining your private pilot license.

You are not required to take a knowledge test for the multi-engine rating, as it is an add-on.

And if you want to add the rating as an additional aircraft class rating, you will do as mentioned in CFR 61.63. C.

1. You must have a logbook or training record from an authorized instructor;
2. Must pass a check ride;
3. Complete the specified training time requirement prescribed by this part that applies to the pilot certificate for the aircraft class rating sought. Note: If the application only holds a lighter-than-air category rating with a balloon class rating and is seeking an airship class rating, then that person must receive the specified training time requirements and possess the appropriate aeronautical experience;
4. You may not be required to do any additional knowledge.

If you want to add the rating as a different aircraft type rating, you will do as mentioned in CFR 61.63.D

1. Must hold or concurrently obtain an appropriate instrument rating;
2. You must have a logbook or training record from an authorized instructor;
3. Pass the check ride at the ATP certification level;
4. Must perform the check ride in actual or simulated condition;
5. Need not take an additional knowledge test if the applicant holds a PPL;
6. If the applicant wants a rating for non-instrument maneuvers aircraft, the rating will be eligible for VFR flights only.

And lastly, if you want to obtain a multi-engine rating with a single pilot station, you must perform the practical test in the multi-seat version of that airplane so that the examiner can observe the applicant during the checkride.

And for multi-engine add-on certification, there is no minimum flight time requirement.

However, expect to fly 10 to 15 hours in a multi-engine airplane before receiving endorsements from an instructor.

If the applicant has never earned a PPL, the requirement must be met for a PPL, although you can use a multi-engine aircraft for the entire training.

The medical requirement also remains the same for the PPL and can be operated under any class of medical certificate.

To add an instrument rating for both a single-engine and multi-engine, you will do as mentioned in CFR 61.63.B

1. You must complete the training and have relevant aeronautical experience.
2. Acquire log book endorsements or training records from an authorized instructor.
3. Take and successfully pass a check ride with CFI in a multi-engine aircraft.

As we agreed earlier, this is a challenging road. Once you start, you must not roll back!

It’s a path for passionate people willing to fight for their aviation goals!