ATPL theory develops knowledge across the subjects needed for professional pilot training, including aircraft systems, meteorology, instruments and principles of flight. It is one part of the journey towards an airline career.
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What exactly is ATPL theory?
As part of your pilot training, you'll study different subjects and gain knowledge across a range of areas. The ATPL is the licence you aim towards if you want to become a captain of a large aeroplane.
There are several steps to get there. On a modular route, theory is usually studied after obtaining a PPL. On an integrated course, it is part of the programme from the beginning.
ATPL theory teaches the knowledge needed across subjects such as mathematics, physics, instruments, meteorology, Aircraft General Knowledge, aircraft performance and Principles of Flight—all those interesting things about aeroplanes that make us love them.
It can be tough and time-consuming, but it's also interesting. That's why we work through it together: to take useful knowledge away and become smarter, more proficient pilots.
You'll sit the regulatory examinations. There are 13 exams, a 75% pass mark and six sittings. More detail is available on our website.
After the theory, you continue towards the professional training stages, including the Commercial Pilot Licence and instrument rating. Later, once you've gained experience as a co-pilot and are progressing towards command, the ATPL theory credit is there for that next stage. That's where the expression “frozen ATPL” comes from. It isn't an official licence title; it's an expression used in the industry.
If you need help with ATPL theory courses, the links are below.
