Flying a twin-engine aircraft unlocks new opportunities—and new responsibilities. While multi-engine airplanes aren’t much harder to fly in normal operations, a loss of an engine changes everything. Without proper training, that scenario can become dangerous fast. At Summit Wings Aviation, we don’t just teach you to pass a check ride—we train you to stay ahead of the airplane, make confident decisions, and stay in control when it matters most.
That’s why our instructors emphasize real-world proficiency, not just exam prep. We prioritize engine-out procedures, decision-making, and multi-engine performance management, so you’re fully prepared—not just for the test, but for the mission.
Whether you’re preparing for a professional pilot career or simply want to expand your capabilities, earning your multi-engine rating in Colorado is a powerful step forward. Summit Wings Aviation provides expert training for both the Multi-Engine Add-On Rating (Private or Commercial) and the Initial Commercial Multi-Engine Certificate, depending on your goals and current certificate level.
What is a Multi-Engine Rating?
A multi-engine rating allows you to act as pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft with more than one engine. Training focuses on asymmetric thrust, engine-out procedures, performance and systems knowledge, and complex aircraft operations. It’s a requirement for most turbine aircraft and airline positions, making it a critical milestone for career-bound aviators.
If you’re searching for multi-engine pilot training in Colorado, Summit Wings offers expert instructors and an efficient path to certification.
Training Options at Summit Wings Aviation
1. Multi-Engine Add-On Rating in Colorado (Private or Commercial)
If you already hold a Private Pilot Certificate or Commercial Pilot Certificate, you can add a multi-engine rating without needing to meet additional time requirements.
Requirements:
- Hold a Private or Commercial Certificate
- Receive instruction in multi-engine operations
- Demonstrate proficiency on a practical test (check ride)
- No minimum flight hour requirements, but training time depends on proficiency
✅ No additional written test required
✅ Typically completed in 15–20 flight hours
✅ Minimum of 10 hours ground instruction expected
✅ Great for pilots who already meet their certificate requirements
💰 Estimated Cost:
- 15–20 hours of aircraft rental at $250–$275/hr = $3,750–$5,500
- 15–20 hours of instruction at $65/hr = $975–$1,300
- Total Estimated Cost: $4,725 – $6,800
2. Initial Commercial Multi-Engine Certificate in Colorado
For pilots who have a Private Pilot ASEL certificate and are ready to pursue their initial commercial certificate in a multi-engine aircraft, this path gets you into the right seat—faster.
Requirements Based on FAR 61.129(b):
A Private ASEL pilot with 250 total hours of flight time (including 100 hours PIC, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours instrument) can apply their prior single-engine experience toward the commercial total time requirement. However, to meet the multi-engine specific training requirements, the pilot must complete:
- 20 hours of training in a multi-engine airplane on the commercial areas of operation, including:
- At least 5 hours of instrument training in a multi-engine airplane
- At least 10 hours in a complex or turbine-powered multi-engine airplane
- One 2-hour day cross-country (100+ NM)
- One 2-hour night cross-country (100+ NM)
- 3 hours of prep with an instructor in the preceding 2 calendar months
- 10 hours of solo or PIC time in a multi-engine airplane with an instructor, which must include:
- One 300 NM cross-country with landings at three airports, one segment at least 250 NM
- 5 hours of night VFR, including 10 takeoffs and landings at a towered airport
Because solo flight is not permitted in Summit Wings’ multi-engine aircraft, these hours must be completed as dual instruction while performing the duties of PIC per FAA regulations.
✅ Earn your Commercial AMEL certificate as your initial commercial rating
✅ Skip the ASEL commercial check ride entirely if not needed for your goals
✅ Ideal for mission-driven, career-focused pilots entering multi-engine ops
💡 Estimated Time Required: Most students should expect to complete 30–36 hours of dual multi-engine flight training, plus 10+ hours of ground instruction, depending on proficiency and prior experience.
💰 Estimated Cost:
- 30–36 hours of aircraft rental at $250–$275/hr = $7,500–$9,900
- 30–36 hours of instruction at $65/hr = $1,950–$2,340
- Total Estimated Cost: $9,450 – $12,240
⚠️ Note: Your commercial certificate will be issued as Commercial Pilot – Airplane Multi-Engine Land only. To exercise commercial privileges in single-engine aircraft, you must complete a separate Commercial ASEL Add-On.
Strategic Considerations: Which Path Is Right for You?
Multi-Engine Add-On – Best If You:
- Already hold a Commercial ASEL and want multi-engine privileges
- Need the rating for specific job qualifications or resume-building
- Want to gain twin-engine experience affordably
Initial Commercial Multi-Engine – Best If You:
- Have 250+ hours total time and meet all commercial experience requirements
- Intend to work in turbine or multi-engine operations early in your career (Part 135/91 SIC roles)
- Prefer to avoid taking both a Commercial ASEL and AMEL check ride
Our instructors will help you determine the best route based on your current certificates, time, and long-term goals.
Accelerated Multi-Engine Training in Colorado (Complete in Just 5 Days!)
Summit Wings Aviation offers accelerated multi-engine training in Colorado for both the Add-On and Initial Commercial Multi-Engine Certificate.
✅ Train full-time and be check ride-ready in as little as five days
✅ Perfect for traveling students or tight schedules
✅ Includes intensive ground instruction, pre/post-flight briefings, and focused multi-engine flight training
⚠️ Advanced scheduling is required to ensure DPE availability and aircraft coordination. Contact us early to reserve your slot.
Why Choose Summit Wings for Multi-Engine Pilot Training in Colorado?
- ✅ Colorado-based AMEL add-on training for private & commercial pilots
- ✅ Accelerated multiengine program completed in just 5 days
- ✅ Commercial AMEL certification – an efficient path to twin-engine career roles
- ✅ Engine-out safety training to prevent loss-of-control accidents
- ✅ Flexible Scheduling – Self-Paced or Accelerated
- ✅ Structured Multi-Engine Syllabus for All Ratings
- ✅ Affordable Pricing and Transparent Planning
Ready to unlock more performance, more capability, and more opportunity? Train with confidence—train with Summit Wings.