ATPL Canada Changes: Skill Requirement (CAR 421.34 (5))
Under the latest ATPL Canada changes, applicants must meet specific skill requirements as outlined in CAR 421.34 (5).
Within the 12 months preceding the date of application, the applicant must demonstrate—in flight, in a Level C or D full-flight simulator, and on the ground—familiarity with and the ability to successfully perform duties as pilot-in-command of:
- A multi-engine aeroplane (with no central thrust configuration)
- Required to be operated with a co-pilot
- Fitted with instruments and equipment suitable for two-crew IFR flight in controlled airspace
Required Demonstrations
The applicant must successfully demonstrate:
(i) Both normal and emergency flight procedures and manoeuvres appropriate to the aeroplane used for the flight test, and the ability to execute all manoeuvres and procedures set out in Division XIV for the issue of a Group 1 Instrument Rating
(ii) A Pilot Proficiency Check (PPC) for operations under IFR in accordance with Part VII
or
(iii) A Pilot Proficiency Check (PPC) or Pilot Competency Check (PCC) for operations under IFR in accordance with Subpart 604, conducted by a person designated by the Minister
Alternative Means of Compliance
An applicant who successfully completes:
- A Line Operational Evaluation (LOE), and
- A Manoeuvres Validation (MV)
Under an approved Advanced Qualification Program (AQP) in accordance with Subpart 705 is deemed to have met the requirement of (5)(a)(ii)
Instrument Rating Endorsement
For the issuance of the Airline Transport Pilot Licence – Aeroplane, the Minister will only endorse a Group 1 Instrument Rating on the licence
Definition: “Required to be Operated with a Co-Pilot”
For the purpose of this section, an aeroplane “required to be operated with a co-pilot” means:
- An aeroplane requiring a pilot and co-pilot as specified in the flight manual, or
- An aeroplane operated IFR with two pilots as set out in:
- The Company Operations Manual of an Air Operator Certificate holder, or
- The Operations Manual of a Private Operator Registration Document holder
ATPL Canada Changes: Frequently Asked Questions
No. Although the Pilatus PC-12 can be operated with two pilots, it is not a multi-engine aeroplane.
The ATPL requires a Group 1 Instrument Rating, which is a multi-engine IFR rating and cannot be completed on a single-engine aircraft.
Yes. The skill requirement includes demonstrating all manoeuvres and procedures required for the issuance of a Group 1 Instrument Rating.
An aeroplane qualifies if:
- The flight manual requires two pilots, or
- It is operated IFR with two pilots as required by a Company Operations Manual (COM) or Private Operator Registration Document
Example: Piper Navajo or Twin Otter operations requiring two pilots under a COM may qualify.
Yes. While Canadian ATPL requirements must be met, conversion to an ICAO ATPL depends on the receiving country’s aviation authority.
Yes. A valid PPC conducted under IFR operations may be used, provided it meets the applicable requirements under Part VII or Subpart 604.
Yes. Under an approved Advanced Qualification Program (AQP), successful completion of a Line Operational Evaluation (LOE) and Manoeuvres Validation (MV) satisfies the requirement.
Yes. You may apply if all other requirements are met.
The licence may be issued with a limitation stating that the skill test does not meet ICAO requirements.
The exams are valid for 24 months.
They must be used toward a licensing purpose such as an ATPL or first two-crew type rating within that period.
No. A Second-in-Command (SIC) PPC or PCC does not meet the requirement.
The skill test must be completed as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) in a qualifying aircraft.
Am I Eligible for an ATPL?
Step 1: Confirm Your Requirements
Step 2: Select Skill Test Path
PIC PPC/PCC
Two-Crew Multi-Engine Aircraft
Single-Pilot Multi-Engine
Certified Single-Pilot Aircraft
(Group 1 IPC, PPC, PCC)
SIC PPC/PCC
Second-in-Command Only
Select all checkboxes and a skill test path to see your eligibility
Early ATPL Assessment – Subpart 604 / Part VII Pilots
For First Officers under Subpart 604 / Part VII who complete SIC PPCs, the required ATPL skill test (PIC PPC/PCC) may not be achievable until after their Captain upgrade. To streamline the process, Transport Canada allows pilots to submit their completed ATPL requirements before finishing the skill test.
How it works:
- Submit all ATPL requirements that you have completed, except the skill test.
- Transport Canada will review your logbook and documentation in advance.
- You will receive an email confirming that you meet all ATPL requirements except the skill test.
- Once your PIC skill test is completed, notify Transport Canada promptly via email.
- If the skill test was submitted digitally, no further action is needed.
- If completed on paper, include a scanned copy with your email.
This early assessment helps reduce processing time, so once your skill test is complete, your ATPL application can be finalized quickly.
Early ATPL Assessment – Step-by-Step Guide
Pilots who are time-constrained or completing PIC skill tests later can submit their ATPL requirements early for pre-assessment by Transport Canada.
Step 1 – Contact Transport Canada
Email your regional TC service team requesting an early ATPL assessment.
- If submitting by mail, include a cover letter with the same information and your logbooks.
Step 2 – Submit Required Documents
Include the following in your email or package:
- Full scans or e-copies of all logbooks
- Completed and signed application form (leave “Part B, 5. Skill” blank)
- PICUS letters/forms, if applicable
- Proof of payment (include receipt number or scanned receipt; payments via TC Online Payment System)
Step 3 – Wait for Early Assessment Results
Transport Canada will review your submission and notify you if:
- More information is required, or
- You meet all ATPL 421.34 requirements except the PIC skill test
Step 4 – Complete PIC Skill Test
Once your skill test is completed, email the service team promptly.
- If your test was submitted digitally by your ACP, no additional action may be required.
- If submitted on paper, attach a scanned copy.
Step 5 – ATPL Issuance
Transport Canada will confirm that your skill test meets the standard and issue your ATPL.
Important Notes:
- Only use the early assessment if time-constrained; otherwise, apply via the standard process.
- Your official ATPL application date will be the date TC receives your skill test, not the date the application form is signed.
- Ensure all written exams are valid within 24 months of your application date (CAR 400.03).
- To allow sufficient processing, submit your early assessment request at least 90 days before your expected skill test date.
Contact: [email protected]