Single-Engine Add-On for Multi-Engine Pilots
Published by: Jordan Morris
You earned a commercial certificate with a multi-engine rating, and then you look at job postings, instructor openings, and rental options. Most of them are in single-engine airplanes. If your certificate does not include single-engine privileges, that gap can stop you from flying the airplanes most pilots fly every day. The good news is that closing it takes a focused training block on the certificate you already hold.
At Speedway Flight Training, our Single-Engine Add-On is built for multi-engine pilots who want those privileges added quickly. If you are finishing or have finished a university aviation program, such as Auburn’s School of Aviation, this guide walks through what the add-on involves and how to plan it.
Why multi-engine pilots add single-engine privileges
A single-engine rating opens a much larger share of the flying most pilots do. Flight instructing, time building, aerial work, and general aviation flying commonly happen in single-engine airplanes. Holding only a multi-engine class rating can limit which airplanes you may fly as pilot in command.
Adding single-engine land privileges can widen your options for instructing and building hours. If you are working toward instructor certificates, our Certified Flight Instructor program is a common next step once your certificate covers the airplane you plan to teach in. Job outcomes depend on many factors, so treat the add-on as a way to widen your options.
The single-engine trainers you will fly are the same airplanes used across our other programs.
Who this add-on is for
The program is designed for pilots who already hold a multi-engine rating on a commercial or ATP certificate and want to add single-engine privileges. If that describes you, you are likely eligible, and our team can confirm the details when you reach out.
University aviation programs are a common route to a multi-engine rating. If you are an Auburn aviation student or graduate, or you trained at another university, and your certificate stops at multi-engine, we can help you compare the add-on with your goals. Our Director of Operations, Marriner Smith, is himself an Auburn School of Aviation graduate. Read more about our team on the crew page.
What the FAA requires to add a class rating
For most class rating add-ons, the FAA process is straightforward. Under 14 CFR 61.63, you need an instructor logbook endorsement confirming you are proficient in the required areas, and you must pass a practical test for the class rating.
If you already hold an airplane rating at your certificate level, you generally do not need an additional knowledge test, and most class ratings do not carry a flight-time minimum. Your training focuses on proficiency, which is why the program is short and focused. Our checkride day guide explains what to expect on test day.
What training looks like at Speedway
Our program pairs you with an experienced instructor for one-on-one training in a modern, IFR-capable Cessna 172 with Garmin avionics. You will work through single-engine operations, maneuvers, emergency procedures, and instrument procedures to the standard your practical test requires.
Because you are already an experienced pilot, we tailor the sessions to the areas that feel new: single-engine performance, engine-out decisions in a single, and the sight picture of a lighter airplane. Every lesson ends with a debrief, and we build in checkride preparation so you arrive ready.
You will train from Atlanta Speedway Airport in Hampton, close to Atlanta airspace.
Planning your schedule and budget
The add-on is a short block, and many multi-engine pilots fit it around work or a school calendar. Schedule, weather, and aircraft availability all play a role, so reach out early to build a plan around your dates. Our team can share current program details and pricing when you contact us.
Beyond training, budget for the examiner’s fee for your practical test, commonly around $800 to $1,200, plus a headset, tablet, insurance, and other supplies you may not already own. If you would like to spread the cost, our financing options can help you explore a plan, and financing can also bundle this rating into a broader career program.
Georgia scenery from the cockpit is part of every training flight.
FAQ: Single-Engine Add-On Questions
Who is eligible for the single-engine add-on?
Pilots who hold a multi-engine rating on a commercial or ATP certificate can add single-engine privileges. Talk with us through our contact page to confirm your situation.
Do I need another written exam?
Generally no. If you already hold an airplane rating at your certificate level, an additional knowledge test is not required for a class rating add-on.
Is a checkride required?
Yes. You complete a practical test with an examiner after your instructor endorses you. Our team prepares you with mock orals and a flight evaluation.
What airplane will I train in?
A modern, IFR-capable Cessna 172 with Garmin avionics. See the fleet page for our current aircraft.
Can I add this rating and then instruct?
The add-on is a common step for pilots planning to instruct, and our CFI program covers the next stage. Requirements depend on the certificates you hold.
Can I finance the add-on?
Yes, financing may be available through our lending partner, subject to approval. Start on our financing page.
Contact us to start your single-engine add-on
Ready to fly everything on the ramp? Contact our team with your certificate details and target dates, and we will help you confirm eligibility, review current program information, and schedule your training block at Atlanta Speedway Airport.
