Ask Captain Lim ~ All about Aviation

Hello Captain Lim,

I would like to ask you a few questions.

Upon my graduation at Asia Pacific Flight Training Academy in Malaysia (KELANTAN), I will receive my CPL and Frozen ATPL. I am a privately funded cadet.

However, I would like to pursue my career with Air Asia. It requires an Airbus A320 Type Rating.

In US, there is a type-rating course for A320 at $14,800.00 U.S.D.

Right now, I worry whether the type rating can be used for my ICAO ATPL.

LASTLY, if I wish to fly a Boeing 777 - can I just take the Type Rating (B777) and then accumulate the flight hours; or do I have to gain the flight hours only with the Boeing 777 plane or just any other plane will do if I have the type rating?

Does this mean that an A320 pilot with B777 type rating, but no experience on B777, can fly a B777?

I really do look forward to your reply.

Thank you very much.

Captain Aero

Hi Captain Aero,

To get your US A320 type rating endorsed into your CPL/Frozen ATPL, you would require the Malaysian DCA's approval. It is best you write/email ( This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or visit them for advice on this issue. (You can also get a glimpse of some minor information in the Malaysian DCA's Abridged Guide on How To Become A Pilot here.)

My advice ? get your Airbus A320 rating from Air Asia (I believe, around MYR 75,000.00 or about USD22, 000.00). If you factor in the lodging, traveling expenses and DCA problem of rating recognition, it may worth your while even though it may be more expensive.

If you get a B777 type rating, (presumably from US?), you have to fly and accumulate flying hours on that plane so as to be qualified on type. The catch question is, who would allow you to fly the B777 unless you are employed by an airline operating the aircraft?

For instance, Qatar Airways is now recruiting First Officer on the B777 - see here.

First Officer (B777)

Requirements

? Total minimum hours 1000
? 500 hours on type
? Valid ICAO ATPL or frozen ICAO ATPL
? Below 50 years of age for type rated applicants.

These positions carry all inclusive average monthly remuneration packages of approximately US$ 9,900 (equivalent QAR 36,100) for First Officers inclusive of housing allowance. Other benefits include Meal allowances, School fee subsidy for children and Loss of License/Medical/Group Life Insurances. All remuneration is TAX FREE.

From the requirements, you are not qualified even though you may have the type rating because you do not have 500 hours (experience) on type. It would also rule an Airbus A320 pilot with a B777 type rating out if he has no experience on the B777.