Restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) Certificate
For Students Who Wish To Obtain The R-ATP Certificate
At California Aeronautical University (CAU), we prepare students for success in the skies. For aspiring pilots looking to take the next step in their aviation career, our FAA-approved Part 141 flight school combined with our educational curriculum offers a comprehensive pathway to earning the Restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) certificate. This certificate is a key milestone for those seeking to become airline captains faster, opening doors to a career in commercial aviation more quickly.
What is the Restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) Certificate?
The Restricted ATP (R-ATP) certificate is a specialized pilot qualification designed to allow pilots to begin their airline career at a reduced flight hour requirement, compared to the unrestricted ATP certificate. The ATP Certificate is typically the first step toward becoming a fully qualified Airline Transport Pilot, which is required for command positions at airlines, and the R-ATP allows pilots to achieve that first step earlier.
In order to qualify for an R-ATP, pilots must meet specific criteria that reduce the experience requirements typically needed for an ATP. This allows qualified individuals to begin their airline career with a more streamlined path while still meeting the stringent safety and proficiency standards set by the FAA.
Why is the R-ATP Certificate Important?
The R-ATP provides several significant advantages for aspiring airline pilots:
- Accelerated Career Path: The R-ATP helps pilots fast-track their way to an airline career, allowing them to begin their airline roles earlier due to more structured training and FAA oversight.
- Reduced Flight Hour Requirements: By qualifying for the R-ATP, pilots can start their careers with as little as 1,000 flight hours (depending on the degree level) instead of the usual 1,500 required for an unrestricted ATP certificate.
- Access to Commercial Aviation Faster: The R-ATP opens doors to becoming a first officer or co-pilot at regional airlines and charter companies sooner, where pilots can gain the experience needed to eventually upgrade to captain and qualify for larger commercial aircraft.
- Stronger Job Prospects: With the increasing demand for pilots, having an ATP certificate with restrictions positions pilots for recruitment earlier by major regional airlines that are looking to fill first officer positions.
Eligibility Requirements for the R-ATP Certificate
To qualify for the Restricted ATP certificate, pilots must meet the following criteria:
Minimum Total Flight Hours (Non-Military):
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- 1,000 hours: For pilots who graduate from an FAA-approved Part 141 flight school with a bachelor's degree in aviation.
- 1,250 hours: For pilots who graduate from an FAA-approved Part 141 flight school with an associate's degree in aviation.
- 1,500 hours: For pilots without a college degree, but are not yet 23 years old.
Educational Background:
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- Graduation from an FAA-approved Part 141 flight school, such as California Aeronautical University, which allows for the reduction in the required flight hours.
Age Requirement:
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- Applicants must be at least 21 years of age to hold an R-ATP certificate.
Meet Other Employer and FAA Requirements.
Benefits of Choosing CAU for Your R-ATP Training
Fast-Track Your Career
With our aviation degree programs, you'll be on the fastest track to a fulfilling career in aviation.
Hands-On Experience
Gain valuable real-world experience through flight training that is directly aligned with airline operations.
Airline Partnerships
CAU has strong relationships with regional and major airlines, giving you the opportunity to network and secure interviews. Our career services team is committed to helping you find your first aviation job and providing ongoing support throughout your career journey.
We'd Love to Show You What CAU is All About!
How CAU Prepares You for the R-ATP
California Aeronautical University offers an ideal training environment for students seeking an R-ATP certificate. Our FAA-approved Part 141 flight school provides the structured, professional instruction necessary for both flight proficiency and academic achievement. Here's what you can expect from our training program:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Our program offers in-depth ground school instruction alongside practical flight training to ensure a complete understanding of the technical and operational aspects of commercial aviation.
- Loggable Flight Simulators: Students have access to flight simulators that enhance training by allowing for scenario-based learning and flight practice in various conditions, which is loggable with the FAA.
- In-house Fleet: Students receive hands-on flight training on CAU’s fleet of Cessna and Baron aircraft, maintained by our in-house maintenance staff.
- FAA Approved: As a Part 141 flight school, CAU meets the FAA’s rigorous standards.
R-ATP vs. Traditional ATP
R-ATP
Eligible CAU students can qualify for a restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) certification and only need 1,000 hours for the flight hour requirement. Candidates without a bachelor’s degree typically need 1,500 hours for their ATP. That's a savings of 500 flight hours.
Traditional ATP
A traditional ATP typically requires a minimum of 1,500 flight hours.
Educational Background
PIC Flight Hours
Cross Country Flight Hours
Night Time Flying
Actual or Simulated IFR
Multi-Engine
Minimum Age Requirement
Medical Certification
Certification Path
1,000-Bachelor's; 1,250 Associate's, 750 Military
250
200
100
75
50
21 years or older
No degree requirement
250
200
100
75
50
21 years or older
No degree requirement
250
500
100
75
50
23 years or older
Certificates and Ratings Earned at CAU
PRIVATE PILOT CERTIFICATE
INSTRUMENT PILOT RATING
COMMERCIAL PILOT CERTIFICATE
FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR
FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR INSTRUMENT
MULTI-ENGINE RATINGStart Your Journey Toward R-ATP Today!