Staggering modular training
 

Looking for advice on how best to stagger my training due to the current situation.
I am currently undertaking my ATPLs with Bristol, aiming to finish next summer.
Flying hours are about 90, I fly a group PA28 Archer which does me well.

I see no rush to crack on with my practical training but wanted to make sure my plan is viable:

1. finish ATPLs
2. obtain night and IR/R
3. fly for fun, build hours
4. get a single engine CBIR (I can do this on my PA28 share to keep costs down)
5. maybe do an FI course to work part time alongside my current career
6. or if things pick up, quickly do the CPL and MEP courses (plus whatever other bits are needed to become "job worthy")

The point I am uncertain on is the time limit I have to work with, I know of a 3 year limit and a 7 year limit.
Is it 3 years to obtain both CPL and IR or 3 years to obtain an IR and then my theory is valid as long as my IR is, allowing me to get my CPL anytime up to the 7 year limit.
Also I understand there is also a 7 year limit to obtain 1500 hours of which 500 is multi crew, to be honest if things are not improved enough that I can't get this within 7 years then there are bigger problems but not looking to discuss that today.

Would be interested if anyone is in a similar position to myself.
Apologies if this is a repeat question.

Small point, I love flying and if I do all this training and it doesn't lead to career that is acceptable, I'm self funded and will be a better pilot with the training.
I also do not intend to come across as insensitive towards those in a worse position than myself.

Hi gordonquinn,

You must have your both CPL/IR issued within the 3 year limit in order for your ATPL theory credits to count. If you obtain only one of these your theory will expire. An SE-IR will suffice at least initially, you can then upgrade to an ME-IR when ready.

The seven year limit is for the ATPL theory credit to count towards your ATPL once you have your CPL/IR. You do not need to have your ATPL issued within the seven years but you do need to ensure you do not let your IR lapse for more than seven years otherwise you'll be going back to the exam room for all 14 exams if you wish to upgrade to an ATPL at a later date.

Where are you based? I'm in an Archer group at Prestwick...

Best wishes.

Point of order, m'lud - only 4 exams expire if you don't get your IR within 3 years, but you must get the CPL. We do such refreshers all time. One trick is to renew the IR every 4 years then the local guy can do it - at 5 years after the last expiry you must do the ride with the CAA.

Out of curiosity, which exams are to be retaken? I guess I-COMM, RNAV, INSTR and Air Law maybe?

I have a sneaky feeling that FPM may be included - we've had some take 5 and some take 4.