Choosing between integrated and modular ATPL training is one of the earliest and most influential decisions on the path to becoming a professional pilot. Both routes lead to the same end goal — a “frozen” ATPL [?] under EASA — but they differ significantly in structure, flexibility, cost, and how they fit into your life.
What is ATPL Training?
The ATPL is the highest level of pilot certification and a requirement to act as pilot-in-command in multi-pilot commercial operations. To reach this stage, every candidate must complete:
- the 14 ATPL theory exams,
- a Commercial Pilot License (CPL),
- an Instrument Rating (IR),
- a Multi-Engine Rating (ME),
- and MCC (Multi-Crew Cooperation) training.
Integrated Training
Overview
Integrated training is a full-time, continuous programme that takes you from zero flight experience to a CPL/IR/ME with completed ATPL theory — the “frozen ATPL”. The course is delivered entirely by one training organisation and follows a tightly structured syllabus.
Programme Structure
Most integrated courses run for 18 to 24 months. During this time, training becomes your full-time occupation. You progress through the phases without long breaks:
- intensive ground school covering all 14 ATPL subjects,
- basic PPL-level flight training,
- CPL training on more advanced aircraft,
- IFR training for the Instrument Rating,
- multi-engine training,
- and finally MCC training to prepare for multi-crew operations.
Advantages
The main strength of integrated training is speed. It is generally the fastest way to reach airline-ready qualifications. Because the course runs without gaps, you maintain momentum and retain skills more easily.
A second advantage is the highly structured environment. Procedures, teaching style, aircraft types, and expectations remain consistent throughout the programme, which helps many students stay focused and organised. Integrated courses are often designed with young career starters in mind, and airlines are familiar with the training standards behind them.
Disadvantages
The biggest obstacle is the high upfront cost. Integrated programmes typically range from €80,000 to €150,000, and a large portion must often be paid in advance or through financing. This creates a considerable financial commitment long before your first professional opportunity.
Flexibility is limited. The timetable and location are fixed, and combining integrated training with a job is rarely practical. Life events such as illness, family situations, or long interruptions can complicate your progress significantly.
Who Is Integrated Training For?
Integrated training tends to suit candidates who:
- are at the beginning of their careers (often 18–25),
- have secured funding or financing,
- can dedicate 18–24 months full-time to training,
- and prefer a structured, guided learning environment.
Modular Training
Overview
Modular training is a step-by-step route, allowing you to complete each licence and rating separately. You decide when and where to train, and you can spread the cost across several years. The end result is still a CPL/IR/ME with completed ATPL theory — a frozen ATPL.
Programme Structure
A typical modular pathway looks like this:
- PPL with at least 45 flight hours,
- hour building to reach required experience levels,
- ATPL theory (which can run parallel to hour building),
- CPL training,
- Instrument Rating,
- Multi-Engine Rating,
- MCC preparation for airline operations.
Advantages
Modular training offers financial and scheduling flexibility. You pay per module, take breaks when needed, and can work alongside your training. For many career changers or students with ongoing commitments, this is the only realistic option.
You also gain broader flying experience. Different schools, aircraft types, and instructors expose you to a wider range of environments, which some pilots find beneficial.
Risk is lower because you don’t commit a large sum upfront. If you decide that aviation isn’t the right career, you may only have completed a PPL or part of the early stages.
Disadvantages
Progress requires self-discipline. Long pauses between modules can lead to skill decay and additional refresher training. Without a well-planned structure, the timeline can stretch far longer than intended.
Costs can also rise if hour building becomes inefficient or if you switch schools frequently. Although modular routes can be cheaper on paper, poor planning can make them unexpectedly expensive.
Who Is Modular Training For?
Modular training is ideal for candidates who:
- need to work during training,
- prefer spreading costs over time,
- want to tailor training to personal circumstances,
- are career changers or older students,
- already hold a PPL or initial aviation experience,
- or want to confirm long-term interest before investing heavily.
Cost Comparison
Integrated Training
| Component | Cost Range (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Complete integrated course | 80,000 – 150,000 |
Modular Training
| Component | Cost Range (EUR) |
|---|---|
| PPL | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Hour building | 8,000 – 15,000 |
| ATPL theory | 3,000 – 6,000 |
| CPL | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| IR | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| ME Rating | 3,000 – 6,000 |
| MCC | 2,000 – 4,000 |
| Total | 44,000 – 73,000 |
Airline Perspectives
Do Airlines Prefer Integrated or Modular?
Most airlines do not distinguish strongly between the two routes. What matters is:
- valid CPL/IR/ME qualifications,
- completed ATPL theory,
- sufficient flight hours,
- recency and competency,
- simulator assessment performance,
- and overall professionalism.
Hybrid Routes
Some pilots combine both approaches:
- PPL + early hours modular,
- ATPL theory self-paced,
- CPL/IR/ME as part of a structured integrated-style package.
Conclusion
There is no universally superior path. The right choice depends on your finances, lifestyle, learning style, and career timing.
Integrated training is fast, structured, and immersive — ideal for those who want a direct, all-in route and can commit fully. Modular training is flexible, lower risk, and more adaptable — ideal for career changers, those with limited upfront capital, or anyone who prefers to progress step by step.
What truly determines success is consistency, commitment, and the quality of training — regardless of which route you choose.
For more information, see ATPL License Requirements [?] or Choosing a Flight School.