Originally Posted by
Messerschmitt
Hi, just want to confirm I can write the 13 ATPL exams while having a CAA (Canadian) CPL.
The idea is to work in Canada until I get my ATPL, then hopefully already having most of my EASA ATPL exams written, I can do a straight conversion from Canadian ATPL to EASA ATPL. But I want to start writing these exams before I have my Canadian ATPL first
Possible?
Yup. The only prerequisite is an ICAO PPL.
You will need to be on a course at an approved training organisation (ATO) which can be distance learning or residential.
An easier option would be to study now but don't take the exams until you have your Canadian ATPL. The ATPL will exempt you from having to do the course (you can self-certify for the exams) and will save you the £2000ish course fee.
After the exams you have two options:
1) To do a straight ATPL conversion you will need a multi crew type on your Canadian ATPL and 500 hours on type. You can't get a UK/EASA ATPL without those 500 hours multi crew time. Also, provided those 500 hours are on a single type and you have a Canadian type rating then it's just a single sim session to get the ATPL and Type Rating.
2) If you have 500 multi crew hours but not on one type, you can do a full type-rating course and get an ATPL.
3) With less than 500 hours multi crew you'll need to do a CPL/MEIR which means training and separate skill tests on a piston aircraft. If you get 50 hours PIC under IFR you'll be able to self certify for the MEIR.
Basically you need to get yourself an airline/multi crew job in Canada to go straight to the ATPL, but if you do is the fastest, easiest and cheapest option.