Boeing 747-400 / 747-8 Type Rating Guide
B747-400 · B747-400ER · B747-400F · B747-400ERF · B747-8 · B747-8F
Key operators
Emirates SkyCargo, Qatar Cargo, Cargolux, Korean Air, Lufthansa Cargo, Atlas Air, Polar Air Cargo, Air China Cargo, CargoLogicAir
Licence & eligibility requirements
Full ATPL required by virtually all B747 operators
Training structure
B747 technical subjects (4-engine systems significantly more complex), simulator training, OPC, LOFT
Approved training organisations
Boeing Flight Services, FlightSafety International (Dallas-Fort Worth), CAE, Lufthansa Aviation Training (Frankfurt), Korean Air Training Centre
Demand outlook
Specialist demand. The 747 passenger fleet is retiring but B747F freighter demand remains strong through 2030 — e-commerce growth drives cargo.
Key facts
The B747 was the world's largest commercial aircraft for 37 years. In passenger service it has largely been replaced by the B777 and A350.
The B747-400F and B747-8F freighter variants are still in high production and operation — e-commerce boom has extended the type's commercial life significantly.
A B747 Captain position is often considered a career pinnacle — most holders have 10,000+ total hours.
Freighter contractors on B747 type can earn daily rates equivalent to €300,000–€450,000+ annual gross during high-demand periods.
The 4-engine type rating is increasingly rare — holders face less competition for the roles that exist and command significant salary premiums.