When we talk about types of commercial aircraft, we’re not just referring to models or sizes, but to the aircraft that pilots learn to know and fly throughout their professional careers. From their first training flights to the cockpit of a passenger plane, each type of aircraft fulfills a specific function within commercial aviation.
In this article, we explain what types of commercial aircraft exist, how they are classified, and which ones are ultimately flown by airline professionals, with a clear focus on future pilots.
What is considered a commercial aircraft?
A commercial aircraft is one intended for the transport of passengers or cargo within operations regulated by airlines. These aircraft operate under strict regulations and require specific certifications for both the aircraft and the pilots.
Within this category, there are different types of commercial aircraft, which are mainly classified according to their capacity, range, and type of operation.
Types of Commercial Aircraft According to Size and Range
Regional Aircraft
Regional aircraft are designed to cover short routes and connect secondary airports with major hubs. They are fundamental in commercial aviation and are often the first professional step for many pilots.
Characteristics of Regional Aircraft
These aircraft typically carry between 30 and 100 passengers, have a limited range, and are known for their operational efficiency. They can be turboprops or regional jets, depending on the route and operation.
Single-Aisle (Narrow-Body) Aircraft
Single-aisle aircraft are the most widely used in commercial aviation today. They operate short- and medium-haul flights and are common on domestic and European routes.
Characteristics of Single-Aisle Aircraft
They have a single aisle, an average capacity of between 120 and 220 passengers, and great operational versatility. For many pilots, this type of aircraft represents direct access to a commercial airline.
Wide-Body (Twin-Aisle) Aircraft
Twin-aisle aircraft are designed for long-haul and intercontinental flights. They offer greater range, more capacity, and a more spacious cabin.
Characteristics of twin-aisle aircraft
They have two aisles, can carry more than 250 passengers, and operate long-haul routes. Piloting this type of aircraft usually requires prior experience flying other commercial aircraft.
Very large aircraft
Although increasingly less common, very large aircraft remain part of the history and operation of commercial aviation on high-demand routes.
Types of commercial aircraft according to pilot training
Training aircraft
Before flying commercial aircraft, pilots begin their training in light, single- or twin-engine aircraft. In this phase, they acquire the fundamentals of piloting, air navigation, and decision-making.
Transition to commercial aircraft
Once initial training is completed, the pilot undergoes simulator training and obtains specific ratings for each type of commercial aircraft. This process allows them to adapt to complex operations and multi-crew cockpit work.
What types of commercial aircraft can a pilot fly?
A pilot can fly different types of commercial aircraft depending on their license, ratings, and experience. Throughout their career, pilots can progress from regional to long-haul aircraft, always through continuous training and development.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of commercial aircraft is essential for aspiring pilots. Each category represents a distinct stage in their career and helps them understand the actual path to commercial aviation.