The short answer is yes – an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate is required to work as captain or pilot-in-command of any commercial airline jet or large charter jet aircraft.
However, not all jets require an ATP. Let‘s take a closer look at the privileges and requirements related to this top-level pilot certification.
What Privileges Does the ATP Provide?
The Airline Transport Pilot certificate represents the highest level of FAA pilot certification. Some key privileges it provides:
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Act as pilot-in-command or captain on commercial airliners and other aircraft over 12,500 lbs
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Fly jets with 10 or more passenger seats
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Earn a salary as an airline pilot or charter captain
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Upgrade to larger, more complex jet aircraft
So in order to fly heavy jets with 10+ seats as captain for an airline, charter company, or large corporate flight department, an ATP is mandatory. This includes airliners like Boeing and Airbus jets.
But an ATP isn‘t required for all jets…
Flying Light Jets with a Commercial Certificate
Many private and corporate jets actually fall under that 12,500 lb threshold and can be flown commercially with just a Commercial Pilot certificate. Some examples of these light jets include:
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Cessna Citation Mustang (max takeoff weight 8,645 lbs)
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Embraer Phenom 100 (10,472 lbs)
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Eclipse 500 (10,600 lbs)
So while you need an ATP for large aircraft, a Commercial certificate may suffice for landing your dream job flying smaller jets. Of course, some operators still prefer pilots with the highest ATP qualifications.
How Do You Earn an ATP Certificate?
Obtaining the ATP involves meeting flight hour minimums, taking advanced training, and passing knowledge and practical exams.
Flight Hour Requirements
In most cases, you‘ll need a minimum of 1,500 total flight hours to qualify for the ATP certificate. However:
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Military pilots can earn their ATP with just 750 hours.
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Graduates of accredited 4-year aviation degree programs need only 1,250 hours.
So while 1,500 hours is the common benchmark, aviation education and experience can provide shortcuts.
ATP Certification Training Program (ATP CTP)
Prior to taking the ATP knowledge exam, you must complete the 7-day ATP CTP training course. This covers:
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Advanced jet systems – electrical, hydraulic, flight controls, etc.
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High altitude aerodynamics and performance
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Airline transport regulations
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Crew resource management
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ATP knowledge areas
This intensive week-long ground school prepares you for the ATP knowledge exam and flight operations.
Knowledge Exam and Checkride
You‘ll need to pass the 100-150 question ATP knowledge exam covering aviation weather, systems, aerodynamics, navigation, regulations, and more. An oral exam and practical checkride with an FAA examiner are also required.
Aircraft Type Ratings
To fly a specific jet model like the Airbus 320 or Boeing 737, you must complete type rating training for that aircraft. This involves simulator time and a checkride. Some type ratings can be added on during initial ATP training.
How Much Does ATP Training Cost?
Earning the ATP involves a serious investment in training, flying, and materials:
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ATP certification course: $4,500 to $6,500
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Flight training: $7,000 to $10,000
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Materials and written exams: $1,000
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1,500 flight hours: $150,000 to $200,000
So all-in, expect to invest $160,000 to $220,000 to go from zero time to your ATP certificate. A major outlay of cash no doubt – but one that allows you to land that job as an airline captain or charter jet pilot with an average salary of $100,000+ per year.
Many pilots take out loans or join airline cadet programs to finance their ATP training. While expensive, the investment can clearly pay dividends in terms of career advancement and earning potential down the road.
Is the Airline Transport Pilot Certificate Worth It?
For those pilots who dream of flying heavy jets commercially, the ATP unlocks that opportunity and offers access to the best piloting jobs.
Yes, the training involves major commitments of time and money. But as one regional airline captain put it:
"Obtaining my ATP was my ticket to the majors. The intensive ground school gave me knowledge I needed on advanced systems and complex airline procedures. It was a challenge but well worth the investment."
At the end of the day, the ATP certificate represents the pinnacle of piloting credentials. If your goal is to fly heavy jets for an airline, charter company, or large corporate flight department, then the ATP is likely very much worth pursuing.
Hope this overview helps explain if you need an ATP for flying different types of jets. Let me know if you have any other ATP-related questions!
