Hey Everyone,

I'm writing my SAMRA/SARON this month, and immediately starting the application process afterwards. It's been a little while since people have made any updates on how things are going with the application process, so I figured I would make a new thread.

It says under skill requirements:
(5) Skill
(a) Within the 12 months preceding the date of application for the licence, an applicant shall demonstrate in a multi-engined aeroplane with no central thrust configuration and fitted with instruments and equipment suitable for IFR flight in controlled airspace, familiarity with and the ability:
(amended 1999/03/01; previous version)
(i) to perform both normal and emergency flight procedures and manoeuvres appropriate to the aeroplane in which the flight test is conducted; and
(ii) to execute all manoeuvres and procedures set forth in Division XIV for issue of a Group 1 instrument rating.

My question is - Does this rule apply even if you hold a current Group 1 instrument rating, and have been staying IFR current, with recurrent rides in a level D sim every 6 months? I'm assuming this rule only applies to people applying for the ATPL who don't currently hold a Group 1 on their file.

Also, is there a more expeditious way to get your ATPL processed? If I book an appointment to see someone in the office, will it be processed faster than if I mail all of my documents?

Any other tidbits from people who have recent experience with this process is appreciated!

Thanks!

To your first question; yes the rule applies to you because it is a skill requirement to have an ATPL. There isn't any reason the skill requirement wouldn't apply to you however a valid Group 1 Instrument Rating with a PPC in a Level D sim in the last year is sufficient as far as I am aware (there was debate about this years ago but I haven't personally heard any controversy about it lately).

Going in person doesn't really do anything from what I have been told (especially since they don't really take walk ins or anything anymore at most offices). Apparently regardless of how you submit it, your application goes into a queue and when they get to it, they get to it. I know of a few people whom got it issued within a shorter time frame because of extenuating circumstances and that was enough to expedite it but generally speaking it is done in the order it was received. I know one friend of mine waiting on theirs right now and it's been 2 months since TC received it and no word so far.

Thanks for the response! Yes, I just talked to someone from TC who has been in the licensing department for years, and she said they will accept an IPC/PPC that was done in a level C/D simulator for the skill requirement for an ATPL.

I was pretty sure that was the case but it's good you clarified. They never complained about mine when I sent it in and I am pretty sure I only had a Level D PPC in the previous 12 months.