ATPL Exams Expiry: Is SE CPL Enough?

[rj2208]

Hi all,

I am asking a question on behalf of a friend.

They have completed all UK CAA ATPL theoretical exams, and their exam validity is till June 2026. They are currently following the modular route and want to make sure the ATPL theory credit is secured before expiry. Unfortunately different instructors at the school have mentioned conflicting information.

Can someone clarify what specific milestone must be achieved by June 2026 for the ATPL exams to remain valid indefinitely? Is passing the CPL Skill Test sufficient under current UK Part-FCL rules, or must both CPL and IR be issued before the deadline?

My understanding is that a single engine CPL Skill Test is sufficient to preserve the ATPL theory credit, and that the IR can be completed later. Is that correct under current UK Part-FCL rules?

Any guidance from those familiar with the current CAA interpretation would be appreciated.

Thanks.

[FlyingStone]

Your friend needs both the CPL and IR issued to preserve the ATPL exams - see FCL.025(c). They remain valid for 7 years from the last expiry of an IR, so almost indefinitely, but T&Cs apply.

Both the CPL and IR skill tests can be done in a SEP or MEP, no difference as far as ATPL exams go.

[rudestuff]

In addition to the above, a (modular) CPL requires 200 hours of flight time, whereas an IR requires a lot less than that - so someone getting a CPL on its own without also picking up an IR "along the way" has seriously wasted both time and money.