Expired SEP rating and starting ATPL
 

I'll be starting the ATPL theory (distance learning while working full time) this summer and was looking for some advice on my current situation.

I currently hold a PPL with a SEP rating expired since summer 2017 (I have approx. 45 hours logged).

Considering the fact that my flying skills will be quite rusty, would it be more beneficial to get the ATPL out of the way first? So once the ATPL is out of the way (approx. summer 2019), I'd revalidate my SEP rating and get my flying skills "up to speed" during hour building before commencing the CPL.

Secondly, if this route were to be taken, would I need to get my CPL within a specific amount of time after passing all of the ATPL exams?

Thanks

The ATPLs are valid for CPL and/or IR issue for 36 months from the date of the last exam.

Thanks for clearing that up. Much appreciated.

I'd just double check on the SEP, I seem to recall that once your SEP has been invalid for more than 2 years, there a few extra hoops to jump through to revalidate; It'll be in the CAA CAPs somewhere what the specific's are.

My SEP is out of date by a few months and I'm just waiting for the wx to clear up so I can revalidate. I'm also studying my ATPLs, all I'd say is you might considering revalidating now and doing a few hours here and there whilst you study. It will also keep you sane and motivated. Plus you can jump straight into the hour building as soon as the ATPLs are complete.

Another thing you might need to consider. If you are going to have a big gap in your flying, you will probably need an experienced instructor to help you get the rust off once you start hour building and ensure that you are up to a decent standard before commencing CPL. You don't want to start the CPL with poor flying skills, as the extra hours required at that stage to get you up to CPL standard will be very costly!

My PPL was issued in Spain so I'll have to look into Spain's CAA regulations regarding different lengths of expiry. Regardless, as you say, renewing the rating now would allow me to do hours here and there which would help with motivation. There would also be much less rust to brush off once I dive into the hour building in preparation for the CPL.

Thanks for the advice and good luck with your ATPLs!