In aviation, MPA stands for Multi Pilot Airplane.
The term MPA refers to an aircraft that, by its type certification, requires a minimum of two pilots for its operation. This designation is crucial in pilot training and licensing, particularly concerning the issuance of specific pilot ratings.
Understanding Multi Pilot Airplane (MPA)
A Multi Pilot Airplane is designed and certified to be operated by a crew of at least two pilots. This requirement is primarily due to the aircraft's complexity, size, performance characteristics, and the operational environment in which it typically operates (e.g., commercial air transport). The cockpit layout, system design, and operational procedures of an MPA are all geared towards facilitating a collaborative and shared workload between the pilots.
Key characteristics that often necessitate a multi-pilot operation include:
- Complex Systems: Advanced avionics, sophisticated engine management systems, and intricate hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic systems that require concurrent monitoring and control.
- High Performance: Aircraft with high speeds, large capacities, and significant operational ranges demand a coordinated effort to manage flight parameters efficiently and safely.
- Workload Management: During critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing, or in emergency situations, the workload can exceed the capacity of a single pilot, necessitating the presence of a second pilot to share tasks, cross-check actions, and maintain situational awareness.
MPA Type Rating Issuance
For pilots to operate a Multi Pilot Airplane, they must undergo specialized training and obtain a specific "Type Rating" for that particular aircraft model. As stated in the reference, this process is known as Multi Pilot Airplane (MPA) Type Rating Issuance. A type rating is an authorization entered on a pilot's license that allows them to fly an aircraft type that requires specific training beyond the basic commercial pilot license (CPL) or airline transport pilot license (ATPL).
| Feature | Single Pilot Airplane (SPA) | Multi Pilot Airplane (MPA) |
|---|---|---|
| Crew Requirement | One pilot | Two or more pilots |
| Complexity | Generally simpler systems and operations | More complex systems and high-level operations |
| Typical Use | General aviation, small commercial operations | Commercial air transport, cargo, large corporate jets |
| Pilot Rating | CPL or ATPL with class/instrument ratings | ATPL required, plus specific Type Rating for each MPA model |
Why are MPAs Important in Aviation?
Multi Pilot Airplanes are the backbone of commercial aviation. They enable the safe and efficient transport of large numbers of passengers and significant amounts of cargo across vast distances. The multi-pilot concept is fundamental to maintaining high safety standards, as it provides:
- Redundancy: Two sets of eyes and brains for cross-checking procedures, inputs, and monitoring the aircraft's status.
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: The ability to distribute tasks allows each pilot to focus on specific aspects of the flight, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the operational environment.
- Improved Decision-Making: Two pilots can collaboratively assess situations, discuss options, and make more informed decisions, especially during abnormal or emergency conditions.
Examples of MPA Aircraft
Virtually all large commercial airliners and many business jets are classified as Multi Pilot Airplanes. Examples include:
- Boeing: 737, 747, 767, 777, 787 series
- Airbus: A320, A330, A350, A380 series
- Embraer: E-Jets family (e.g., E175, E190)
- Bombardier: CRJ series, Global Express business jets
