Earning a Boeing 737 type rating under the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India can be a complex process. We're here to simplify the process by outlining the essential requirements and steps involved. Whether you’re a newly licensed pilot or seeking to convert your existing license to meet the DGCA standards, this guide will provide you the clarity you need.
1. Pilot Certification and Eligibility
Before you commence the process, ensure you meet these basic prerequisites:
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): You must hold a valid CPL issued by the DGCA.
- Instrument Rating (IR): A valid IR endorsement is necessary for handling instrument-based operations on the Boeing 737.
- Medical Fitness: Passing the DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination is essential to confirm you’re fit for the physical and mental challenges of flying a commercial jet.
- Minimum Flight Hours: Pilots need to log a minimum of 100 hours of flight time, including specific hours in cross-country, night, and instrument flying, as specified by the DGCA.
2. Theoretical Training Requirements
Ground training provides the foundation for your type rating. Here’s what you can expect:
- DGCA-Approved Ground School: Learn about the Boeing 737’s systems, performance, operations, and limitations. A key focus will be on the Flight Management System (FMS) and handling abnormal situations.
- DGCA-Specific Modules: Understand Indian airspace regulations, DGCA compliance requirements, and other country-specific aviation standards, setting them apart from global authorities like the FAA or EASA.
All theoretical courses involved in ground training are either conducted in class with an instructor or through online platforms. At Simaero we conduct the online training on our e-learning platform - Wisdom, which is available 24/7.
3. Simulator Training Requirements
Simulator training enables you to put your theoretic knowledge into practice by testing various real-world scenarios:
- Fixed Base Simulator (FBS): Get familiarized with the cockpit and controls in a stationary session, in a full-flight simulator without motion or on a flight training device.
- Line Oriented Flight Training (LOFT): Participate in sessions designed to mimic actual airline operations, focusing on handling real-world challenges.
- Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC): Essential for airline operations, MCC training emphasizes teamwork and communication in a multi-crew cockpit environment.
4. Skill Test and Assessment
Once your training is complete, you’ll be further assessed on your additional competencies:
- Type Rating Skill Test: Conducted by a DGCA examiner, this test evaluates your ability to operate the Boeing 737, manage emergencies, and demonstrate an understanding of its systems.
- Oral Examination: This may cover technical details, operating procedures, and compliance with DGCA regulations.
Congratulations, you are Type-rated now!
5. Additional Requirements for Foreign Pilots
If you hold a foreign license or have completed training abroad, there are additional steps:
- License Conversion: Pass DGCA exams and demonstrate proficiency to convert your foreign CPL or type rating into a DGCA-issued license. Also, the Class 1 Medical exam needs to be conducted.
- Verification of Training Credentials: Training completed outside India must be verified and approved by the DGCA to meet Indian aviation standards.
6. Validity and Recurrent Training
A type rating isn’t a definite process, it has an expiry and requires periodic renewal:
- Validity: Type ratings are typically valid for 12 months.
- Recurrent Training: Pilots must complete periodic simulator sessions to maintain their rating and meet DGCA revalidation rules.
Take the Next Step with Simaero
Ready to earn your Boeing 737 NG type rating with Simaero? Explore our type rating course as per DGCA guidelines today and take the next step towards building your pilot career!
Simaero is a world-leading provider of pilot training on full-flight simulators and simulation engineering solutions. In global aviation, change is a constant. We promise to be a straightforward and continual presence in the complex training requirements of international airlines and pilots. With five training centres strategically located in France (headquarters), South Africa, China and India, Simaero trains over 5,000 pilots every year from 250+ civil and military carriers and 80+ countries. Our simulator fleet and training solutions cover the main commercial aircraft types, including Airbus, Boeing, ATR, and Embraer.
