Generally you will have to start your flying career in Europe under a contract with an employment agency such as Brookfield Aviation, PARC, Direct Personnel, etc. They hire pilots for carriers such as Jet Airways, Ryanair, Sahara, etc.

Once you get a contract you will be required to take a JAR medical before you start training. The initial JAR medical will cost about $700. Subsequent exams will cost about $150. Effective October of this year first class medicals will be required annually rather than every 6 months.

You will also be required to take written exams as well. Each European country has their own specific requirements as to the number of exams required to convert your FAA certificate.

You will attend the carrier’s training program as if you were employed by the airline itself. At the end of training, a Type Rating Examiner (TRE) will administer the final simulator check ride. You take the paperwork to the aviation authority so a certificate can be issued.

The cost for a work permit with the assistance of the attorney will be about $3,000. You don’t need the work permit until you start your line training.


The potential tax free income out weighs the costs and inconveniences involved in getting the JAR certificate.