Multi-Engine Rating
Unlock a new level of performance, speed, and capability. The Multi-Engine Rating is an essential step for any pilot pursuing a professional aviation career.
10+
Hours Multi-Engine Flight
2
Engines
IR
Recommended Prerequisite
ATP
Path to Airlines
Multi-Engine Rating Overview
Fly Aircraft with More Than One Engine
The Multi-Engine Rating (ME) authorizes you to act as pilot-in-command of aircraft with more than one engine. Multi-engine aircraft offer significantly higher performance — greater speed, climb rate, and payload capacity — compared to single-engine trainers.
At Tradewind, multi-engine training is conducted in a twin-engine aircraft with modern avionics. You will master the unique aerodynamics of multi-engine flight, including the critical skills of engine-out procedures and Vmc (minimum control speed) operations.
For pilots pursuing a career at the airlines or in corporate aviation, the Multi-Engine Rating is a required milestone. It is typically added after the Instrument Rating and before or during Commercial Pilot training.
FAA Requirements
- Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate
- Hold a current FAA medical certificate
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
- Complete the required flight training with a CFI-ME
- Demonstrate proficiency in all required multi-engine tasks
- Pass the FAA practical test (checkride) with a DPE
Curriculum
What You'll Learn
Multi-Engine Aerodynamics
Understand the performance advantages and handling characteristics of twin-engine aircraft, including asymmetric thrust and propeller effects.
Engine-Out Procedures
Master the critical engine-out identification, shutdown, and single-engine operations required to safely manage an engine failure at any phase of flight.
Vmc & Performance
Learn minimum control speed (Vmc) operations, accelerate-stop distances, and single-engine climb performance to make sound go/no-go decisions.
Systems & Avionics
Operate complex aircraft systems including retractable gear, constant-speed propellers, fuel management, and glass-cockpit avionics found in twin-engine aircraft.
Your Path to the Rating
How Training Works
Ground School
Study multi-engine aerodynamics, systems, performance charts, and engine-out procedures before ever stepping into the aircraft.
Aircraft Familiarization
Get acquainted with the twin-engine aircraft — cockpit layout, systems operation, normal procedures, and pre-flight inspection.
Normal Operations
Build proficiency in takeoffs, climbs, cruise, descents, and landings in the multi-engine environment with both engines operating.
Engine-Out Training
Practice engine-out identification, feathering, single-engine approaches, and go-arounds until the procedures are second nature.
Checkride Preparation
Refine all required tasks with your instructor until you consistently meet or exceed the FAA Airman Certification Standards.
FAA Checkride
Complete an oral exam and practical flight test with a Designated Pilot Examiner. Pass and you hold an FAA Multi-Engine Rating.
Ready to Add Multi-Engine to Your Certificate?
Talk to our team about scheduling your Multi-Engine Rating training. We will build a plan around your current certificates and career goals.