So I thought I'd bring this up for those interested in professional training. It appears now that the old method of getting a PPL, then Multi rating, Instrument rating, etc may be gradually being replaced by the latest scheme called "Multi Crew Pilot's License" training.

It basically replaces the need to fly single engine aircraft and the likes by focussing more on simulator training and multi pilot environment. A clip from Oxford's website:

"Our full-time MPLFO training course is the very latest innovation in professional airline pilot training - embracing competency based training methods delivered utilising new generation EFIS aircraft and simulator technology within a multi crew training environment.

Each MPLFO is designed to train airline mentored ab initio cadet pilots from zero flying experience through to becoming a First Officer on type - working in partnership with a specific airline customer to achieve their key training needs.

Upon completion of the course, a pilot is initially issued with an MPL(A) and is only entitled to fly for their mentor airline on a specific aircraft type until sufficient airline flying experience is gained for them to be issued with an ATPL(A).

The MPL Training programme is designed on a competency-based framework of learning objectives"


Whats everyone's opinion on this scheme? It appears that you are trained specifically for an airline, then, once you have flown the 1500 hours (I presume) then you apply for the ATPL. However, one significant problem I can forsee is that if your airline goes bust during your training, it appears as though you are left with no license of any kind and that your money is wasted?

Can anyone enlighten me any more about this scheme? It appears that this could replace the old style of gaining your ATPL by starting at the very beginning on single engine Cessnas and the likes...