Make no mistake about it: Going through a two- to three-week type-rating course is grueling. Many pilots have a strong preference for turboprop aircraft for the explicit reason that no type rating is required. But like the process of flying jets itself, the type course is structured; a specific set of steps impart a specific knowledge to the pilot. The information that must be learned is clear and finite for a type rating. Unfortunately, finite doesn’t mean small.
While it’s possible to show up for a two-week type course with no prior preparation and breeze through, it’s also possible to win the lottery twice in a week. For 99 percent of pilots, a healthy dose of study and preparation prior to Day One of the type course is essential.
