If memory serves me correctly, the 1st class professional pilot licence (known as PP1) ceased to exist nearly 25 years ago. It is best described as an intermediate licence between the CPL and the ATPL. The check ride was usually taken on a turboprop (Nord 262) or a light jet (Corvette) at the SFACT (Service de la Formation Aéronautique et du Contrôle Technique) training center in St. Yan.
When France switched to a two-level licencing scheme (CPL and ATPL), PP1 holders were issued an ATPL under certain requirements.
Last edited by finessemax; 15th Jan 2013 at 19:47.