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Multi Engine Piston Rating

C
Written by Callum Watt
Updated over 5 months ago

This training is delivered at an Aeros location of your choice.

The Multi-Engine Piston (MEP) Rating is a key step in a pilot’s progression towards commercial aviation. This course provides the training required to operate twin-engine aircraft, introducing pilots to the complexities of multi-engine aerodynamics, asymmetric flight, and emergency procedures.

At this stage of training, students will transition from single-engine to multi-engine aircraft (typically the DA42 Twin Star), learning to manage two engines, advanced avionics, and increased performance capabilities. The MEP rating is required before progressing to the Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) and, ultimately, the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).

Objectives

  • Develop a thorough understanding of multi-engine aircraft operation

  • Learn to handle asymmetric flight conditions and engine failure scenarios

  • Gain experience with complex aircraft systems, including retractable landing gear and variable-pitch propellers

  • Prepare for advanced instrument flying in twin-engine aircraft (CB-IR phase)

Entry Requirements

  • Hold a UK CAA Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

  • Hold an Instrument Rating (Restricted) (IR(R)) (recommended but not mandatory)

  • Hold a Class 1 Medical Certificate (recommended before CPL training)

  • Logged a minimum of 70 total flight hours, including:

    • 10 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)

Training Breakdown

Flight Training (Minimum 5.5 Flight Hours & 7 Hours Ground School)

  • Multi-Engine Theory & Systems (7 Hours Ground School)

    • Multi-engine aerodynamics and performance

    • Systems operation (fuel, electrical, hydraulics)

    • Asymmetric flight principles

    • Emergency procedures and engine-out scenarios

      Dual Flight Training (5.5 Hours Total in Multi-Engine Aircraft)

    • Normal and abnormal operations

    • Take-offs, landings, and circuit procedures

    • Single-engine operations (engine shutdown and restart)

    • Handling engine failures after take-off and in cruise

    • Performance calculations and limitations

      Simulator Session (0.5 Hours in FNPT II/ALSIM - If Required)

    • Basic procedures training and emergency drills

Ground School & Theoretical Knowledge

Students must pass one written exam covering:

  • Multi-engine aircraft aerodynamics and handling

  • Systems knowledge and emergency procedures

  • Weight and balance, performance calculations

Examinations & Skill Test

  • MEP Written Exam: One multi-engine theory exam (75% pass mark required)

  • Flight Test: A skill test with an examiner in a multi-engine aircraft, covering normal and asymmetric operations

Privileges & Limitations

Privileges:

  • Allows pilots to operate twin-engine piston aircraft under VFR or IFR

  • Essential for progressing to Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) and Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

Limitations:

  • The MEP rating alone does not permit IFR operations—a CB-IR or ME-IR is required for instrument flying

  • The rating must be revalidated every 12 months

Expected Timeline

  • Full-time students: 1-2 weeks (weather dependent)

  • Part-time students: Flexible, based on scheduling

Progression to the Next Stage

After completing the Multi-Engine Piston (MEP) Rating, students will proceed to the Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR), where they will gain full instrument flying privileges in twin-engine aircraft. This leads directly into the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) phase, completing their commercial flight training.

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