Definition
An additional qualification added to a pilot certificate that authorizes the holder to act as pilot in command of an aircraft with more than one engine. It is earned by completing specific training and passing a practical test in a multi-engine airplane, and it is added to an existing pilot certificate rather than being a separate certificate.
Plain English
Permission, added to your pilot's license, to fly aircraft that have more than one engine. You earn it by training and passing a flight test in a twin (or larger) aircraft.
Context Anchor
Seen in pilot certification, training plans, aircraft rental requirements, and decision-making discussions about whether a pilot is qualified for a planned flight.
Derivation
Multi- comes from a Latin word meaning “many” or “more than one.” Rating, in aviation certification, means an official qualification placed on a pilot certificate. Together, multi-engine rating means an official qualification for aircraft with more than one engine.
Why Pilots Care
Required to legally operate multi-engine aircraft, which have distinct handling and performance demands compared to single-engine planes.
Intuition Check
Do not read rating here as a score or review. In this context, a rating is an official FAA qualification added to a pilot certificate.
Example Sentence 1
After earning her private pilot certificate, she began training for a multi-engine rating so she could fly the company's twin.
Example Sentence 2
With the multi-engine rating, he could legally fly the Cessna 310 on cross-country trips.