ATPL

The Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is the highest level of aircraft pilot certification in many civil aviation systems. It authorizes the holder to act as captain on multi-crew, transport-category aircraft in scheduled air services, subject to meeting aircraft type rating requirements.

Entry typically requires progression through lower licenses. Most programs begin with a private pilot license (PPL) and an instrument rating (IR), followed by a commercial pilot license (CPL) and a multi‑engine rating (ME). In many jurisdictions, applicants also complete a course for multi-crew cooperation (MCC) or an integrated pathway. The ATPL theory consists of a set of written examinations; after passing, a candidate is granted a “frozen” ATPL, pending further flight experience.

Practical requirements include meeting a minimum total flight time (commonly around 1500 hours on aeroplanes in many systems) and specific experience benchmarks such as cross-country, night, and instrument time, as well as a flight test and a type-rating process for the final aircraft. The ATPL theory exams cover subjects such as air laws, aerodynamics, flight planning and performance, systems, and multi-crew coordination.

Activation and privileges: The license may be activated to full status once the required experience is met. Holders may then operate as captain on appropriate aircraft, with additional type ratings and recurrent training required for specific fleets and operators.

Regional variations: Prerequisites, exam formats, and minimums vary by authority (for example, EASA, FAA, or national bodies). The general framework, however, centers on high-level theoretical knowledge, substantial flight experience, and demonstrated operational competence for command duties.