FAQ – Frequent questions about the ATPL license
What is the ATPL license?
The ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) is the highest civil pilot license and – after reaching the necessary flight hours – is entitled to be used as responsible pilot (captain) on commercial aircraft.
How long does ATPL training take?
The duration depends on the training model. Integrated full-time courses usually last 18-24 months, and modular training courses can extend over several years depending on personal schedules.
How much does the ATPL bill cost?
In Germany, the total costs are typically between approximately 60,000 and 120,000 euros, depending on flight school, training model, flight hours and additional costs such as examination fees or equipment.
What conditions do I have to meet?
As a rule, you will need at least 18 years of age, a Medical Class 1, sufficient English language skills, a school degree (often middle-aged or high school graduation) and personal aptitude in the form of tests and conversations.
What medical fitness do I need?
ATPL training requires a class 1 AME issued by an approved AeMC. It shall be renewed at regular intervals.
What does “frozen ATPL” mean?
“Frozen ATPL” means that the ATPL theoretical examinations have been passed and that you, among other things, have CPL/IR but have not yet achieved the total flight hours required for a ‘fully valid’ ATPL. You are already allowed to fly as a co-pilot in regular traffic.
How does the ATPL become “unfrozen”?
Once you have met the required 1,500 total flight hours and other experience requirements, your license can be converted into a fully-fledged ATPL. Then you can be used as the pilot in charge on commercial aircraft.
How many flight hours are required?
A minimum of 1,500 flight hours are normally required to obtain a fully valid ATPL. Significantly fewer hours are sufficient for the start of training, depending on the course of training.
What are the theoretical subjects of ATPL?
The ATPL theory comprises 14 subjects, including air law, meteorology, navigation, flight planning, general aircraft science, aerodynamics, instrument science, operating procedures, mass and centre of gravity calculation, human performance and radio navigation.
What is the difference between ATPL and CPL?
CPL (Commercial Pilot Licence) is the commercial pilot license for smaller missions, e.g. Charter or training. ATPL is the highest licensing level and requirement to later work as captain on commercial aircraft.
Can I make ATPL part-time?
Yes, in particular modular courses are suitable for this. Theory and practice can be completed in blocks or on weekends. The total time is extended accordingly.
Which language proofs are required?
They usually require an ICAO English level of at least Level 4. In addition, national radio communication certificates (e.g. BZF/AFZ) is required, depending on the area of operation and language.
Which flight school is right?
The choice of flight school depends on budget, location, fleet condition, training philosophy and supervision. A personal visit, briefings and testimonials from other students are very helpful.
What is an FNPT-II simulator?
An FNPT-II (Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer) is an approved flight simulator that maps specific aeroplane types and may be credited for part of instrument flight instruction.
What future opportunities do I have as a pilot?
The prospects depend on market conditions, economic development and personal flexibility. In the long term, the profession offers good prospects worldwide, especially for well-trained and mobile pilots.
Can I do ATPL without graduating from high school?
Legally, no Abitur is prescribed. Many flight schools accept applicants with intermediate maturity. However, mathematical and scientific fundamentals are very helpful.
How hard are the theory exams?
The exams are demanding and require structured learning. However, with a good training program, discipline and sufficient learning time, they are easy to cope with.
How often can you repeat exams?
There are limited repetition options and a maximum number of sessions, as well as a time limit. The detailed rules shall be laid down by the competent authority.
Can I finance the training?
Many flight students use bank loans, education funds or other financing solutions. Careful financial planning and neutral advice are very important.
Which airlines are hiring ATPL graduates?
The spectrum ranges from large scheduled airlines to holiday airlines and freight and business jet companies. Concrete opportunities depend on the market and individual qualifications.
What is the practical examination procedure?
In the so-called Skill Test, you fly with an examiner a defined program that includes normal, instrument and emergency procedures as well as landings. Precision, safety and procedural knowledge are evaluated.
What documents do I need?
As a rule, you need identification documents, school and if necessary. Evidence of formal qualifications, police certificate of conduct, Medical Class 1, CV and, if applicable, other documents of the flight school.
Can I do the training abroad?
Yes, many aspiring pilots complete the training abroad. It is important that the license can later be recognized or rewritten by the desired authority.
How long is the ATPL valid?
The license itself remains, but medical, authorizations and checks must be renewed regularly. Without these extensions, the eligibility rests.
What further training is available after ATPL?
Possible steps are type ratings, training for flight instructors, upgrade to captain, additional qualifications in the safety or training area and much more.
What is a Type Rating?
A type rating is a type rating for a particular commercial aircraft (e.g., a type rating). B. Airbus A320 or Boeing 737). It is required in addition to the ATPL license to be able to fly this type.
How does Medical Class 1 work?
They shall complete a comprehensive aero-medical examination in an approved centre. Among other things, cardiovascular, vision and hearing as well as general health are tested.
What are the age limits?
For the beginning of the training, there are usually only minimum age limits. For commercial regular transport, the maximum working age as a pilot-in-command within Europe is currently 65 years.
Can I become an airline pilot immediately after ATPL?
With “frozen ATPL”, sufficient flight experience and a suitable type rating, you can apply to Airlines. Whether and when you are hired depends on the market and the selection process of the respective airline.
How is modular training different from integrated training?
Integrated courses lead you to the commercial pilot license in a continuous program from zero. Modular embodiments consist of individual modules (e.g. PPL, CPL, IR), which can be combined more temporally in a more flexible manner.
What is the workload during theory?
The theoretical phase is intense. Daily teaching, self-study and examination preparation require a high willingness to learn. Good learning planning helps to structure the load.
How often do theory exams take place?
Aviation authorities shall offer periodic examination meetings. Your flight school will inform you when and at which rhythm you can take the individual subjects.