Is a 45 week course from 0 to CPL/IR/ME too long?
 

Hi,

I've been searching for reputable flight schools and found Flight Safety Academy's program. The academy seems professional but I'm a little curious on if it's normal to take 45 weeks - full time - to go from zero to CPL (ME) / IR/ME.

I've read the forums enough to know that your flight training duration depends on individual's flying ability but is 45 weeks normal? It seems rather long compared to some courses offering the same ratings in 6 month period.

Thanks.

That sounds about right to me to be honest?

ATPLs alone are usually quoted at around 6 months alone to complete (residential) so 45 weeks doesn't sound unusual to me.

It's actually even quite fast.
You could do faster if you had
- very good knowledge of the administrative aspects or ability and willingness to learn them all very quickly
- very good theoretical abilities
- all the money lined up so it won't delay you
- a bit of luck (for instance, starting at certain periods of the year could be less favourable)

Here is the fastest that I reckon anyone could go :
Month 1 : september : PPL theory and first flying hours
Month 2 : start of ATPL theory learning, PPL completed at the end of the month
Months 3, 4, 5 : subscribe to an ATPL theory school (having started to learn the subjects one month before), fly all your time building, get your night rating etc..
Months 6, 7 : CPL MEIR
Month 8 : MCC/JOC

I believe it physically impossible to do it any faster.
I've known people who did each of the above steps in the time I mentionned individually, but I don't know of anyone who has done all the steps at this pace.

For realistic values, you can add 2 months for ATPL theory, and another month for practical training, and here you go : 45 weeks :)
But ask your school : if you negotiate, ask in advance, etc.. they very well may be able to fasten things up, if you can keep up with the pace.

45 weeks, doubt it

I think the 45 week course is for an FAA ticket.