ATP Certificate

If you’re considering a career as a commercial pilot you will be required to have an airline transport pilot certificate (ATP). An ATP certificate is now a must for anyone planning to fly for a scheduled airline or as a charter captain. That pretty much covers all professional pilots.

Why the Change?

Previously, all ATPs were the same. The certificate required for airline captains 1,500 flight hours, a knowledge test, and to be at least 23 years old. In 2013 things changed when Congress passed a law the required ATP certificates for airline first officers. The law was a response to a fatal airline accident.

What it Means for Aviation School

Included in the law is a series of provisions that gave credit for training or experience gained in the military, four-year aviation college, and at two-year aviation schools. The message was clear – if getting hired by an airline as fast as possible is your goal – obtaining training and degrees from an aviation school is a smart investment. 

ATP Certification Training Program

Before you can get a multiengine airplane ATP, you must take the ATP Certification Training Program. It’s a five-day course that is required prior to taking the ATP knowledge test. It covers advanced knowledge areas and includes basic simulator training. Many airlines will pay for the course as part of their approved training programs.

ATP Requirements

To be eligible for an ATP certificate you must: 

• Be 23 years old
• Hold a commercial pilot certificate and an instrument rating
• Pass the ATP knowledge and practical tests
• Meet the minimum flight hour requirements specified in FAR Part 6-1.

Flight Hour Requirements

You must have 1,500 hours before applying for an ATP certificate. Of these hours you will need to have at least: 

• 500 hours of cross-country time
• 100 hours of night time
• 50 hours in the class of airplane for the rating
• 75 hours of instrument time
• 250 hours of time as a pilot in command

Ready for a Career in the Skies?

Due to these changes in certification requirements attending an aviation school is now the fastest track to beginning a career as a commercial pilot. CTI has a Memphis, Tennessee location and a Fort Lauderdale, Florida location. We offer affordable programs and give our students everything they need to have a long and fruitful career as a professional pilot. Got questions? Contact us today and we’ll answer any question you have!