Have you ever looked up at the sky and dreamed of taking the controls of an aircraft and feeling the freedom of flight? A pilot's career is more than a job: it is a passion, a challenge and a way of life. But how can you turn that dream into reality? The route to an airline cockpit under the EASA system requires strategic planning of both time and finances. We cover the basics – requirements, medicals and licence types – in our article how to become an aeroplane pilot, step by step. Here we focus on what shapes an airline career: choosing between the modular and integrated routes, how long it takes to reach an ATPL(A) Frozen qualification, and the costs, including VAT.
The foundations of a pilot's career: from PPL to ATPL
Before taking the controls, you need to understand the EASA pilot-licence hierarchy. Each licence is another step in your career. You can find a detailed comparison of the three licences in our article which pilot course should you choose: PPL, CPL or ATPL.
- PPL(A) (Private Pilot Licence) – the starting point. It allows non-commercial flying and requires at least 45 hours of flight time.
- CPL(A) (Commercial Pilot Licence) – the licence required for commercial flying. It requires between 150 and 200 hours of total flight time.
- ATPL(A) (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) – the highest-level licence. After training, you receive what is known as a frozen ATPL (fATPL) qualification, which becomes a full ATPL once you have reached 1,500 hours of flight time.
Before you invest in a pilot training course, you must first pass a Class 1 aviation medical examination (EASA Class 1 Medical). This is an essential requirement. The comprehensive examination assesses your physical and mental fitness to work as a commercial pilot. It includes detailed assessments of the cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal and nervous systems, as well as laboratory tests and a psychological assessment.
Two routes to the cockpit: modular or integrated?
There are two main training routes towards an ATPL(A). They differ in duration, cost and flexibility.
Integrated route (Integrated ATPL)
This is a full-time pilot training programme offered by a single approved training organisation (ATO), which manages the entire course.
- Structure and duration – the course is intensive and follows a fixed plan, usually lasting 18 to 24 months.
- Financial commitment – this is the more expensive option. It often requires payment upfront or in large instalments.
- Advantages – a faster route with a well-structured programme. You do not need to manage the logistics yourself.
- Disadvantages – little control over the pace of training, high initial costs and the need to commit full-time, which brings additional living expenses.
Modular route (Modular ATPL)
The training stages are completed separately. This lets candidates spread the time and cost according to their individual circumstances.
- Structure and duration – students start with a PPL(A), then build flight time (hour building) before beginning ATPL ground school. The route is flexible and depends, among other things, on availability and finances; it typically takes 3 to 5 years.
- Financial commitment – the overall cost is lower. The modular route makes it possible to work between training modules.
- Advantages – candidates have more control over the process (they can choose different ATOs for different modules) and greater flexibility. Organising their own training also gives them valuable experience.
- Disadvantages – it requires considerable self-discipline and organisational skills.
| Factor | Integrated route | Modular route |
|---|---|---|
| Total duration | 18–24 months (full-time). | 3–5 years (flexible, part-time). |
| Estimated cost (from 0 to fATPL) | High upfront cost. | Lower, spread over time. |
| Payments | Concentrated upfront. | Spread across modules (with the option to work). |
| VAT status | Usually VAT-exempt in full. | 23% VAT may apply to the PPL and hour building. |
Training structure and duration
Flight training includes ground school and practical flying. The time needed to earn a licence depends on the weather, aircraft availability and the pace of learning.
- PPL(A) – a foundation course with ground school and 45 hours of flying. It usually takes 3 to 6 months.
- ATPL ground school – an intensive theoretical course (more than 600 hours of study).
- CPL(A) – requires at least 150 hours of flight time.
- Full ATPL – becomes available after 1,500 hours of flight time, usually while working as a pilot.
Training costs: from PPL to ATPL
Practical flying, charged by the hour, accounts for the largest share of the cost. We have compiled indicative costs and minimum flight-time requirements for PPL(A), CPL(A) and ATPL Frozen in our article how much a pilot licence costs and how many hours you need to fly. The price depends on the aircraft (single- or multi-engine) and the ATO's rates. With modular training, you should also budget for:
- ground-school courses (PPL and ATPL),
- hour building (more than 100 hours of solo flying),
- specialist training – CPL, IR and MEP,
- medical examinations and examination fees,
- keeping licences and certificates valid.
The cost difference between routes can reach several dozen per cent, mainly because payments are spread out and VAT applies to some stages of modular training.
Key takeaways
- Start with the medical certificate – there is little point investing in the next stages without it.
- Choose a route that fits your finances – integrated training is faster; modular training offers more flexibility.
- Plan ahead – budget for additional hours and fees.
- Use grants – EU and national funding may cover as much as most of the course fee.
- Think long term – after earning a commercial licence, you will still need a type rating for a specific aircraft.
At Ventum Air, you can complete the entire modular route – PPL(A), Night VFR, IR, MEP, CPL(A), ATPL(A) ground school and MCC – at one ATO, guided by instructors who also fly for airlines. See our 0-ATPL programme and our graduates' careers.