What Airlines Require an ATR Type Rating? A Comprehensive Guide

What Is an ATR Type Rating?

An ATR Type Rating is a certification that allows a pilot to operate a specific type of aircraft—in this case, the ATR 72 or ATR 42, which are popular regional turboprop aircraft used by airlines around the world. This certification is required to ensure that pilots are thoroughly trained and qualified to operate these aircraft safely. The process of obtaining an ATR Type Rating involves both ground school and flight training, focusing on the aircraft’s unique systems, performance characteristics, and handling procedures.

At Global Training Aviation (GTA), we exclusively offer training on the ATR 72 simulator, specifically for the ATR 72 500 and ATR 72 600 models. Our state-of-the-art simulator ensures pilots receive the highest quality training tailored to these aircraft.

This Type Rating course is recognized by aviation authorities such as the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), making it an internationally recognized qualification. To obtain the type rating, pilots must meet certain prerequisites, such as holding a valid commercial pilot license (CPL) and meeting the required flying experience. Once certified, pilots are authorized to operate ATR aircraft in various commercial operations, enhancing their career prospects and opening up opportunities with airlines operating these aircraft.

Who Needs an ATR Type Rating?

Aspiring regional airline pilots looking to specialize in turboprop aircraft need an ATR Type Rating to pursue careers with airlines that operate these popular regional aircraft. ATR aircraft are commonly used in short- to medium-haul flights, and having a type rating for these models is essential for those looking to operate them as part of their aviation career. This certification ensures that pilots are equipped with the necessary skills to handle the specific systems and performance characteristics of these aircraft.

Pilots transitioning from other aircraft types to ATR models also need to obtain an ATR Type Rating. Whether they are moving from larger jets or different turboprops, the training ensures that they are familiar with the unique features of ATR aircraft, such as their handling, cockpit systems, and operational limitations. Moreover, first officers or captains seeking employment with airlines that operate ATR fleets will need this certification as it is often a requirement for securing positions within such airlines. The ATR Type Rating enhances a pilot’s qualifications and opens up more job opportunities in the regional aviation sector.

List of Airlines That Require an ATR Type Rating

1. European Airlines

Several major European airlines rely on ATR aircraft for their regional operations, making the ATR Type Rating a crucial qualification for pilots wishing to work with these carriers. Here are some key European airlines that require an ATR Type Rating:

  • Air Corsica (France) – This airline operates both the ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft, using them for regional flights across the Mediterranean. Pilots seeking employment with Air Corsica need to be qualified with an ATR Type Rating.

  • Loganair (UK) – Loganair uses ATR aircraft for domestic and island routes, offering essential connections across Scotland and the surrounding regions. Pilots interested in joining Loganair must hold the ATR Type Rating to operate their ATR fleet.

  • Binter Canarias (Spain) – Operating primarily in the Canary Islands, Binter Canarias connects various islands with ATR turboprops. This regional airline requires pilots with an ATR Type Rating to maintain its services.

  • Finnair (Norra – Nordic Regional Airlines, Finland) – Finnair’s regional arm, Norra, operates the ATR 72 for short-haul operations across the Nordic region. Pilots aiming to join Norra must possess an ATR Type Rating.

 

  • Aer Lingus Regional (Ireland) – This regional branch of Aer Lingus uses ATR aircraft for various routes, providing essential connections within Ireland and to the UK. Pilots must have an ATR Type Rating to fly these aircraft for Aer Lingus Regional.

2. North American Airlines

In North America, several airlines rely on ATR aircraft for regional and remote operations, and pilots must hold an ATR Type Rating to fly these aircraft:

  • Silver Airways (USA) – Operates ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 for regional routes across Florida and the Bahamas, providing essential connectivity for smaller communities. Pilots are required to have the ATR Type Rating to fly these aircraft on short-haul flights.
  • Canadian North (Canada) – Uses ATR aircraft for northern routes and remote area connections across Canada’s expansive and rugged terrain. The airline connects remote communities in the North, and an ATR Type Rating is necessary for pilots operating these aircraft in challenging environments.

3. Latin American Airlines

Several Latin American airlines operate ATR aircraft for regional and domestic flights, and pilots must hold an ATR Type Rating to fly these planes:

  • Avianca (Colombia, Central America fleet) – Uses the ATR 72 for short-haul domestic operations across Colombia and Central America, connecting major cities and smaller regional airports. The ATR Type Rating is essential for pilots joining Avianca’s fleet.

     

  • SATENA (Colombia) – Operates ATR aircraft for remote regional services, particularly in Colombia’s more challenging and less accessible regions. Pilots must hold an ATR Type Rating to operate these aircraft on their varied routes.
 
  • InterCaribbean Airways (Caribbean) – Runs ATR services between islands in the Caribbean, providing crucial connections across the region. Pilots must be qualified with an ATR Type Rating to operate these aircraft safely.

4. Asian & Middle Eastern Airlines

In Asia and the Middle East, several airlines operate ATR aircraft for regional and niche routes, requiring pilots to hold an ATR Type Rating:

  • IndiGo (India) – Operates the ATR 72 for regional domestic flights, connecting major cities with smaller regional airports across India. Pilots must have an ATR Type Rating to operate these aircraft.
  • Bangkok Airways (Thailand) – Uses ATR aircraft for short-haul international routes, connecting cities within Southeast Asia. The ATR Type Rating is required for pilots to fly these aircraft on international routes.
  • Malaysia Airlines (MASwings, Malaysia) – Operates ATR 72 aircraft for rural connectivity, providing essential services to remote regions in Malaysia. Pilots must be certified with the ATR Type Rating to operate these aircraft.
 
  • Flydubai (UAE, ATR operations) – Uses ATR turboprops for niche routes, often servicing regional destinations not covered by larger aircraft. ATR Type Rating is necessary for pilots flying these turboprops on Flydubai’s ATR operations.

 5. African Airlines

In Africa, several airlines operate ATR aircraft for regional and domestic flights, requiring pilots to hold an ATR Type Rating:

  • Air Botswana (Botswana) – Operates an ATR fleet for domestic and regional flights, connecting major cities and remote areas within Botswana. Pilots must have the ATR Type Rating to operate these aircraft.

  • Precision Air (Tanzania) – Uses both ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft for regional flights across Tanzania and neighboring countries. Pilots are required to hold an ATR Type Rating to fly these aircraft.

 

  • Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian Mozambique, Ethiopia) – Operates an ATR fleet for regional routes, providing essential connections across East Africa and beyond. ATR Type Rating is a prerequisite for pilots joining Ethiopian Airlines’ ATR operations.

6. Oceanian Airlines

In Oceania, several airlines rely on ATR aircraft for short-haul and inter-island services, and pilots need an ATR Type Rating to operate these planes:

  • Air Tahiti (French Polynesia) – Operates an ATR fleet for inter-island flights across French Polynesia, connecting numerous islands in the region. Pilots must hold an ATR Type Rating to fly these aircraft.
  • Fiji Airways (Fiji Link, Fiji) – Uses ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft for short-haul services, connecting Fiji’s islands and neighboring regions. The ATR Type Rating is required for pilots operating these aircraft on regional flights.

Requirements for Obtaining an ATR Type Rating

To qualify for an ATR Type Rating, pilots must meet specific training and experience requirements set by aviation authorities and airlines. These ensure that pilots are properly trained to operate ATR aircraft safely and efficiently.

Key requirements include:

  • Valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) – Pilots must hold a valid CPL or ATPL to be eligible for type rating training.
  • Multi-Engine Rating (MER) and Instrument Rating (IR) – These certifications are necessary to operate the ATR’s twin-engine systems and fly in instrument conditions.
  • Completion of an ATR-specific training program – Pilots must undergo both ground training and full-flight simulator sessions to familiarize themselves with ATR aircraft systems, performance, and operational procedures.
  • Minimum flight hours – Flight experience requirements vary depending on the airline and aviation authority, but pilots typically need a certain number of total flight hours before starting type rating training.

Meeting these requirements is essential for pilots seeking to obtain an ATR Type Rating and pursue careers with airlines operating ATR fleets.

How to Get an ATR Type Rating?

Obtaining an ATR Type Rating involves a structured training process that ensures pilots are fully qualified to operate ATR aircraft. The steps to achieve this certification include:

  • Enroll in an Approved Training Organization (ATO) – Pilots must join an ATO that offers ATR type rating courses, ensuring the training meets regulatory standards.
  • Complete simulator and theoretical training – The program includes ground school instruction on ATR systems, procedures, and performance, along with full-flight simulator sessions to develop handling skills.
  • Pass skill tests and assessments – Pilots must successfully complete the required skill tests and evaluations set by aviation authorities to demonstrate proficiency in ATR aircraft operations.
  • Apply for airline-specific ATR job openings – Once type-rated, pilots can apply for positions with airlines operating ATR fleets, as many carriers require pilots to already have the ATR Type Rating before hiring.

 

Following these steps allows pilots to obtain their ATR Type Rating and qualify for career opportunities with regional airlines worldwide.

Conclusion

An ATR Type Rating significantly enhances a pilot’s employability, especially with regional airlines that operate ATR aircraft. Whether in Europe, Asia, North America, or other regions where ATRs are widely used, obtaining this certification opens doors to numerous career opportunities. Airlines often require pilots to be type-rated before hiring, making it a valuable qualification for those looking to advance in the aviation industry.

At GTA, we offer ATR Type Rating courses for the ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600, providing high-quality training through state-of-the-art simulators and experienced instructors. If you’re looking to obtain your ATR Type Rating, GTA is here to support your journey toward a successful career in regional aviation.

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