An applicant for the EASA ATPL (A) modular theoretical knowledge course must:

• Have attained the age of 17 years
• Hold a valid PPL (A) issued in accordance with ICAO Annex 1
• Be able to read, write and orally communicate in English to a minimum of ICAO Level 4
• Have sufficient knowledge of Mathematics and Physics (science) to facilitate an understanding of the theoretical knowledge instruction content of the course. This entry standard is deemed met on successful completion of either Maths and Physics course and exam.

Course Structure

• 13 Subjects
• The ATPL course is usually based on 3 modules of distance learning and classroom instruction.
• The complete distance learning course requires minimum 650 hours of study (subject to credits) plus further hours for maths and Physics.

Module 1

• Principles of Flight
• Mental Maths Test
• Air Law
• Meteorology
• Human Performance and Limitations
• Communications
• KSA Formative and Summative Assessment

Module 2

• General Navigation
• Radio Navigation
• Flight Planning and Monitoring
• Operational Procedures
• KSA Formative and Summative Assessment

Module 3

• Aircraft General Knowledge
• Instrumentation
• Performance (Aeroplane)
• Mass and Balance
• KSA Formative Assessment

Part-FCL, Appendix 3, Part B allows the following reductions in theoretical knowledge training hours:

• CPL (A) / IR holder a reduction of 400 hours (minimum 250 Hours)
• CPL (A) holder a reduction of 250 hours (minimum 400 hours)
• IR holder a reduction of 150 hours (minimum 500 hours)

Any available credits for previous qualifications will be at the discretion of the CTKI and should be agreed with the DCA. Whilst the duration of the course is shortened, students must achieve a satisfactory standard in the progress tests and school exams to be eligible to enter the exam system.

CPL Credits

Applicants for the issue of a CPL holding a CPL in another category of aircraft shall have received theoretical knowledge bridge instruction at an ATO on an approved course according to the differences identified between the CPL syllabi for different aircraft categories. Applicants shall pass theoretical knowledge examinations as defined in this Annex (Part-FCL) for the following subjects in the appropriate aircraft category:

• 021 - Aircraft general knowledge: airframe and systems, electrics, power plant and emergency equipment
• 022 - Aircraft general knowledge: instrumentation
• 032/034 - Performance aeroplanes or helicopters, as applicable
• 070 - Operational procedures
• 080 - Principles of flight

Applicants for the issue of a CPL having passed the relevant theoretical knowledge examinations for an IR in the same category of aircraft are credited towards the theoretical knowledge requirements in human performance and meteorology unless they have completed the IR training course in accordance with Appendix 6, Section Aa, to this Annex (Part-FCL). Applicants for a CPL having passed the relevant theoretical knowledge examinations for an IR or EIR in the same category of aircraft are credited towards the theoretical knowledge requirements in the communications subject.

ATPL Credits

Applicants for the issue of an ATPL holding an ATPL in another category of aircraft shall have received theoretical knowledge bridge instruction at an ATO on an approved course according to the differences identified between the ATPL syllabi for different aircraft categories. Applicants shall pass theoretical knowledge examinations as defined in this Annex (Part-FCL) for the following subjects in the appropriate aircraft category:

• 021 - Aircraft general knowledge: airframe and systems, electrics, power plant and emergency equipment
• 022 - Aircraft general knowledge: instrumentation
• 032/034 - Performance aeroplanes or helicopters, as applicable
• 070 - Operational procedures
• 080 - Principles of flight

Applicants for the issue of an ATPL(A) having passed the relevant theoretical examination for a CPL(A) are credited towards the theoretical knowledge requirements in the subject “communications”. Applicants for the issue of an ATPL(A) having passed the relevant theoretical examination for an IR(A) are credited towards the theoretical knowledge requirements in the subject “communications”.

IR Credits

Applicants for an IR, or for a BIR, who have passed the relevant theoretical examinations for a CPL in the same aircraft category, shall be credited towards the theoretical knowledge requirements in the following subjects:

• 040 -  Human Performance
• 050 -  Meteorology
• 090 -  Communications