Conversion - ICAO-compliant foreign CPL with multi to a JAR CPL with MEP class rating
Must pass the MEP rating theory exam (dead easy).
Must demonstrate theoretical knowledge to CPL or ATPL level by attending the full approved theory course and passing the written exams (e.g. 650 hours study and 14 exams for the ATPLs).
Must complete a course of flight training and pass a skills test in a multi-engine aircraft. The number of hours required is 'at the discretion' of the CFI of the FTO.
Conversion - ICAO compliant foreign multi-IR to JAR IR-SPA-ME (Single Pilot Aeroplanes - Multi-Engine)
Must demonstrate theoretical knowledge to IR or ATPL level by attending the full approved theory course and passing the written exams (e.g. 650 hours study and 14 exams for the ATPLs).
Must complete a full approved 55 hour course of training and pass the skills test. A credit of 5 hours towards the course is given for holders of a CPL.
Exceptions:
Foreign ICAO-compliant ATPL holders with more than 500 hours multi-crew must demonstrate knowledge at ATPL level (length of course at the discretion of the FTO) and then pass the IR skills test to be awarded the ATPL.
Foreign ICAO-compliant ATPL holder with a significant amount (>3,000 hours?) of Multi-crew command time do not have to demonstrate knowledge at ATPL level.
Welcome to the wonderful world of the JAA. Different national authorities may interpret these regulations differnetly. Until the beginning of the year the UK CAA was interpreting the requirements with regards to converting a foreign IR very liberally, and seems to have got its wrist smacked by the JAA.
cheers!
foggy.
[ 30 October 2001: Message edited by: foghorn ]