In order to enter the fascinating world of aviation and work as a commercial pilot flying the ATR family aircraft, it is necessary to obtain an ATR42/72 Type Rating from an ATO (Approved Training Organization). In order to be eligible for the Type Rating course you need to meet the following requirements:
- hold a valid CPL(A) license,
- hold a valid IR(A) multi-engine,
- have flown at least 70 hours as pilot in command (PIC),
- have passed the ATPL theoretical examinations,
- hold a certificate of satisfactory completion of MCC course.
Usually, the training consists of several phases. In the case of our ATR 42/72 Initial Type Rating course, aimed at pilots who want to pilot ATR aircraft, we have 3 phases*:
Phase I. Malaga, Spain
- 85 Hours Instructor led Theoretical Training (2 weeks)
- CBT
- 6 hours of Cockpit Procedure Training – CPT
Phase II. Paris /Toulouse, France
- 32 Hours ATR42/72 FFS
- 4 Hours Skill Test
Phase III. For EASA license holders only Base Training (6 or 4 T/G), Malaga, Spain.
*Entry Level Training will be required for those who do not have 500 hours total time and also do not have a minimum of 200 hours in Multi Crew operated aircraft.
As you can see, the training begins with the ground school and is focused on knowing all the Systems and Limitations of the ATR42/72, followed by Cockpit Procedure Trainer sessions prior to start the simulator training, where all phases of flights including all emergency procedures are trained.
Lastly, as per EASA regulations, and in order to obtain the ATR Type Rating, a base training is required in the ATR aircraft where the candidate has to compete 6 take offs and landings.
It is estimated that in the next twenty years about 700 thousand new pilots will be needed by the airlines, due to the growing demand of different airlines around the world, including ATR pilots due to the increase in Regional connectivity using Turboprop aircraft.
The quality of Training received by the pilot or future pilot is the basis of success, so betting on a highly reputed training center, which employees highly experienced and skilled instructors is essential.
