Cadetship MPLs

[MrSandyWilly]

Hey there,

I apologise if this is the wrong forum for this - I did my best! I’m looking to start applying to cadet programmes in the near future as airlines begin to open them back up.

Having spoken to some people, they’ve advised that most cadet programmes are for an MPL, which I understand to be a more restrictive license than ATPL.

Is this a problem? Is there a way to convert an MPL to an ATPL down the line?

All the best!

Will, UK

[cryptoknight]

- MPL is the same level as CPL
- ATPL is a higher level.
I'm pretty sure the airline will provide you with MPL and then ATPL and type rating.
- Downside is that if you completed MPL but you want to quit, your MPL is worthless

[Will66]

Hey there,

I apologise if this is the wrong forum for this - I did my best! I’m looking to start applying to cadet programmes in the near future as airlines begin to open them back up.

Having spoken to some people, they’ve advised that most cadet programmes are for an MPL, which I understand to be a more restrictive license than ATPL.

Is this a problem? Is there a way to convert an MPL to an ATPL down the line?

All the best!

Will, UKRegarding your question, an MPL (Multi-crew Pilot License) is a relatively new type of pilot license that is designed specifically for pilots who will be operating as part of a multi-crew environment, such as those found on commercial airlines. An MPL focuses on crew resource management, which is the ability to work effectively as part of a team, and the development of skills that are specific to multi-crew operations.

An MPL is indeed a more restrictive license than an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) in the sense that it only allows a pilot to operate as a First Officer in a multi-crew environment. However, this should not be seen as a disadvantage, as most airlines nowadays only recruit pilots with an MPL for their cadet programs.

Regarding your question about converting an MPL to an ATPL down the line, it is indeed possible. The process generally involves completing additional training and accumulating a certain amount of flight experience. The specifics of the conversion process can vary depending on the country and regulatory authority involved, so it is always best to check with the relevant authorities or training organizations for the exact requirements.

In summary, if your goal is to become a commercial airline pilot, then pursuing an MPL should not be a problem, and it may even be advantageous given the current hiring practices of most airlines. And, if you desire to become a Captain or obtain a more unrestricted license, it is possible to convert your MPL to an ATPL later on by fulfilling the requirements set by the regulatory authority.

I hope this helps! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

[MrSandyWilly]

Regarding your question, an MPL (Multi-crew Pilot License) is a relatively new type of pilot license that is designed specifically for pilots who will be operating as part of a multi-crew environment, such as those found on commercial airlines. An MPL focuses on crew resource management, which is the ability to work effectively as part of a team, and the development of skills that are specific to multi-crew operations.

An MPL is indeed a more restrictive license than an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) in the sense that it only allows a pilot to operate as a First Officer in a multi-crew environment. However, this should not be seen as a disadvantage, as most airlines nowadays only recruit pilots with an MPL for their cadet programs.

Regarding your question about converting an MPL to an ATPL down the line, it is indeed possible. The process generally involves completing additional training and accumulating a certain amount of flight experience. The specifics of the conversion process can vary depending on the country and regulatory authority involved, so it is always best to check with the relevant authorities or training organizations for the exact requirements.

In summary, if your goal is to become a commercial airline pilot, then pursuing an MPL should not be a problem, and it may even be advantageous given the current hiring practices of most airlines. And, if you desire to become a Captain or obtain a more unrestricted license, it is possible to convert your MPL to an ATPL later on by fulfilling the requirements set by the regulatory authority.

I hope this helps! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Thanks Will! That's a big help. Of course an MPL is an excellent way into airline flying, but I don't want to end up stuck!

One question: do you know if it's common for airlines to fund the ATPL conversion a few years down the line? I've heard from one person that they do, but I have no idea how common this actually is.

All the best!

[Will66]

Thanks Will! That's a big help. Of course an MPL is an excellent way into airline flying, but I don't want to end up stuck!

One question: do you know if it's common for airlines to fund the ATPL conversion a few years down the line? I've heard from one person that they do, but I have no idea how common this actually is.

All the best!It is difficult to give a definitive answer as the availability of funding for MPL to ATPL conversion varies from airline to airline and is often subject to the airline's policies, financial situation, and the pilot's performance and potential within the company.

However, some airlines do have career progression programs that include funding for additional pilot training, including MPL to ATPL conversion. These programs are usually designed to help pilots develop their skills and advance their careers within the airline. The availability of funding may also depend on the airline's staffing needs and the availability of qualified pilots.

Overall, while it is not guaranteed, it is not uncommon for some airlines to provide funding for MPL to ATPL conversion for their pilots. It is worth noting, however, that the specific policies and opportunities can vary greatly between different airlines, so it's important to do your research and reach out to airlines directly to inquire about their programs and opportunities.

[MrSandyWilly]

It is difficult to give a definitive answer as the availability of funding for MPL to ATPL conversion varies from airline to airline and is often subject to the airline's policies, financial situation, and the pilot's performance and potential within the company.

However, some airlines do have career progression programs that include funding for additional pilot training, including MPL to ATPL conversion. These programs are usually designed to help pilots develop their skills and advance their careers within the airline. The availability of funding may also depend on the airline's staffing needs and the availability of qualified pilots.

Overall, while it is not guaranteed, it is not uncommon for some airlines to provide funding for MPL to ATPL conversion for their pilots. It is worth noting, however, that the specific policies and opportunities can vary greatly between different airlines, so it's important to do your research and reach out to airlines directly to inquire about their programs and opportunities.
Thanks again. I see that it's quite variable, but great that it's not uncommon. Thanks for your help! Hope you have a wonderful day.

[VariablePitchP]

Thanks Will! That's a big help. Of course an MPL is an excellent way into airline flying, but I don't want to end up stuck!

One question: do you know if it's common for airlines to fund the ATPL conversion a few years down the line? I've heard from one person that they do, but I have no idea how common this actually is.

All the best!

The conversion is a £300 admin fee following an extra 5 minutes of testing within one of your normal sim checks. It’s a total non event, provided you’re within the airline world. Leave, then that’s where it gets expensive.

[MrSandyWilly]

The conversion is a £300 admin fee following an extra 5 minutes of testing within one of your normal sim checks. It’s a total non event, provided you’re within the airline world. Leave, then that’s where it gets expensive.
Oh wow, I was expecting far worse! Thanks, that’s really reassuring. Not a big deal at all then.

[ScotWings]

There is zero difference in converting an MPL to an ATPL, compared to converting a CPL to an ATPL.

Extra 5 minutes doing a raw data ILS in the sim as part of your annual LPC/OPC , pay the CAA £300, and you’re all done.

[MrSandyWilly]

There is zero difference in converting an MPL to an ATPL, compared to converting a CPL to an ATPL.

Extra 5 minutes doing a raw data ILS in the sim as part of your annual LPC/OPC , pay the CAA £300, and you’re all done.
Perfect! Thank you:)