In August of 2014, the FAA changed the regulations regarding the training required to become an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). In the past, there was no specified prerequisite to take the ATP written exam, though the general eligibility requirements for the ATP rating required applicants to be 23 years of age, be able read, speak, write, and understand English, and one of a number of other qualifiers involving certificates and ratings, military equivalency, aeronautical experience, and the intangible requirement to possess good moral character.
While the general eligibility requirements remain unchanged, the new requirements to take the written test have changed. A new regulation has been created, 14 CFR 61.156, which requires that prior to taking the ATP knowledge test, a pilot must complete a training course that includes academics and training in a Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD). The academics are in-classroom and instructor-led by experienced airline pilots. For the practical experience, two of the three elements of training in the FSTD include low energy states/stalls, and upset recovery techniques – both are components of Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT).
Why the change? The FAA has responded to the fact that the predominant cause of fatalities in commercial aviation is due to Loss of Control In-flight (LOC-I). They have reasoned that additional training in UPRT will help to mitigate the threat of LOC-I, thus increasing aviation safety. What you should know is that LOC-I is also the leading cause of fatalities for other segments of aviation including business aviation and recreational flying. So whether you will become an ATP in the future and will be impacted by this regulatory change, or already have an ATP rating, UPRT can reduce your exposure to the threat of LOC-I more than any other element of flight training. Give us a call at APS and let us talk with you about your UPRT needs, and our solutions.
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