Just reading the threads and not sure if Cos got the answers he wants. As mentioned, UK CAA exams are no more (helicopters excepted). All exams are JAA and there are so few providers of JAA CPL courses as there is so little demand. Sitting ATPL exams will not involve much more than doing CPL exams and passing a CPL skils test will provide a CPL(R) - for restricted, which can be removed when you have 700 hours (just like the old BCPL). You can add an I/R which will enable you fly light twins commercially (air taxi). A JAA ATPL can only be issued when you have 1500 hours including 500 multi-crew. As I understand it the, the 36 months refers to starting the exams (first sitting) and having the CPL(R) issued i.e. if you don't get an ATPL issued you don't lose all you have gained. In essence, the rules haven't changed as much as people believe. Hope this helps.