On August 1, the requirements for getting the Airline Transport Pilot certificate are changing quite dramatically, making it more difficult and much more costly to achieve the rating. While the ATP certificate is only required for flying passengers for airlines or charter operators, it is still a mark of excellence that many pilots desire regardless of whether they will ever use the rating.
If you have the desire to get your ATP, the time is now. After August 1 you will have to complete an ATP certification training program (CTP) course prior to being able to qualify for the written knowledge test. The CTP requires a minimum of 30 hours of ground school and 10 hours of flight time in a flight simulation training device, training that will take a great ding out of your pocketbook. You will also be required to meet higher requirements for multiengine, cross-country and total flight time to qualify to take the checkride.
