A
class rating is an allowance to fly a certain group of aircraft that require training common to all aircraft within the group. A
type rating is specified if a particular aircraft requires additional specialized training beyond the scope of initial
license and aircraft class training. What aircraft require a type rating is decided by the local aviation authority. Almost all single engine piston (SEP) or multi engine piston (MEP) single pilot aircraft can be flown without a
type rating, but are covered by a
class rating instead. An exception to this under
Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) regulations is the piston version of the
Piper Malibu.