Why "time in type" is important when booking an aircraft

When you book a private aircraft charter with us, you can rest assured that the pilot and co-pilot have extensive experience alongside their training and professional qualifications.

What is “time in type” in private aviation?

“Time in type” is a crucial concept in private jet piloting. Broken up into two segments, we get “time” and “type.” Here’s what the two separate aspects refer to:

• Time refers to the total number of flight hours a pilot has accumulated. This includes various flying scenarios, such as solo flights, dual instructions, and specific conditions, such as night flying and cross-country flights.
• Type refers to the specific aircraft model a pilot is certified to fly. Private jet pilots receive a type rating certification, allowing them to operate a particular aircraft type. For example, they might have a type rating for Cessna Citation Latitude or Gulfstream G150.

So, time in type refers to the number of hours a pilot has accumulated at the controls of a particular type and model of aircraft. A pilot with 600 hours “in type” is better suited to a particular flight than a pilot with more overall hours but fewer hours flying that specific aircraft model.

Why is time in type important?

Time in type is essential when selecting the most suitable pilot for every private jet charter journey. The amount of experience a pilot has in a specific aircraft is crucial when it comes to flight planning and maximising route efficiency, as they understand the intricacies of the aircraft. 

The pilot also has a greater understanding of the aircraft’s flight deck layout, takeoff and landing capabilities, and manoeuvring capabilities.

While different aircraft require varying degrees of pilot certification, both the pilot-in-command (captain/PIC) and the second-in-command (SIC) must hold the required type ratings, qualifications, experience and certification from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or an international regulator.

These pilot type ratings are specific to aircraft manufacturers, models and even series. So, a pilot who is experienced and permitted to fly one aircraft will not be able to pilot a different model of aircraft without the required amount of experience and hours behind the controls.

Book a private aircraft with ACS

At ACS, we have over 30 years of experience in the private aviation industry, and we are one of the most reputable and trusted brands for good reason. When you book a private charter with us, you know you are getting the best in both in-flight crew and on-the-ground service. Our charter experts work with our luxury travel agency, The Travel Division at Air Charter Service, to ensure you receive the highest quality service throughout your journey.

Contact us if you have any questions or to book a private charter today.