Integrated vs Modular ATPL: Which Route to the Flight Deck Suits You?
Two EASA routes, one licence. Compare the integrated and modular ATPL paths on structure, pace, theory exams and cost planning to find the one that fits you.
If you want to fly for an airline in Europe, you will need the same end result whichever school you choose: a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) with multi-engine and instrument ratings, plus credit for the Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory exams. There are two main ways to get there under EASA rules: the integrated route and the modular route.
Both routes are recognised by EASA and lead to the same licence, and they suit different people and situations. That said, if your goal is to fly for an airline as directly as possible, the integrated route has some clear advantages. Here is how the two compare.
The integrated ATPL: one continuous course
An integrated ATPL course takes you from little or no flying experience to a “frozen” ATPL in a single, full-time programme at one Approved Training Organisation (ATO). Theory and flying are planned together, and you progress with a cohort of fellow students.
- Structure: one approved programme, from day one to graduation.
- Minimums under EASA: at least 750 hours of theoretical knowledge instruction and around 195 hours of flight training (part of which can be done in a simulator).
- Duration: typically 18 to 24 months full time. At Sevenair Academy, the Integrated ATPL(A) takes approximately 24 months.
- Who it suits: people who can commit to full-time training and want a structured path with a clear timeline.
The modular route: step by step
The modular route breaks the same qualifications into separate stages that you can complete one at a time, often at different schools:
- Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
- ATPL theoretical knowledge (often by distance learning)
- Hour building to meet the experience requirements
- Night rating
- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
- Multi-engine rating
- Instrument Rating (IR)
- Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) and, depending on the course, Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT)
- Structure: flexible, stage by stage.
- Duration: varies. Some people complete it in a similar time to an integrated course; others take several years while working.
- Who it suits: people who need to keep working, spread the cost or already hold some licences.
Side-by-side comparison
- Licence at the end: the same for both routes, a CPL(A) with ME and IR and ATPL theory credit.
- Pace: integrated is fixed and full time; modular is flexible.
- Continuity: integrated keeps theory and flying closely linked; modular may involve gaps between stages.
- Cost planning: integrated is usually a single, larger commitment; modular can be paid in stages, but total costs vary with your choices and pace.
- Learning environment: integrated students train as a cohort with the same instructors and standards throughout; modular students often train more independently.
Why many future airline pilots choose integrated training
- Continuity. Theory and flying are planned together, so what you learn in the classroom is applied in the aircraft within days or weeks, not months.
- One standard from day one. You train with the same organisation, procedures and instructor team throughout, which builds consistent habits.
- An airline mindset. Integrated courses are designed around the end goal of the airline flight deck, with multi-crew and professional standards built in along the way.
- A predictable timeline. A fixed, full-time programme means you know when you are likely to finish and can plan your move into airline recruitment.
- Close progress monitoring. One training organisation follows your progress from start to finish and can support you early if you need it.
- Cohort support. Training alongside fellow cadets keeps motivation high, especially through the demanding theory phase.
- Cadet programme links. Many airline and manufacturer cadet programmes are built around integrated training.
When the modular route can make sense
Modular training can be a good fit if you need to keep working while you train, if you already hold a PPL or other licences, or if you need to spread the cost over a longer period. If you choose this route, plan carefully to avoid long gaps between stages, which can make it harder to keep skills and knowledge fresh.
The ATPL theory exams: the same for everyone
Both routes include the same ATPL(A) theory syllabus, covering 13 subjects from Air Law to Meteorology and Principles of Flight. Under EASA rules, you must pass all of them within an 18-month period and a maximum of six exam sittings, with up to four attempts per subject. The pass mark is 75%. Good study habits and a well-organised theory course make a real difference here.
How to choose
Ask yourself a few practical questions:
- Can I commit to around two years of full-time training?
- Do I prefer a structured programme or a flexible one?
- How will I fund my training, all at once or in stages?
- Am I aiming for a specific airline or cadet programme, and what route does it require?
If you can commit to full-time training and your goal is an airline career, the integrated route is usually the most direct way to get there. Whichever route you take, look closely at the school itself: its approvals, fleet, instructors, weather, safety culture and how it prepares students for airline selection.
Frequently asked questions
Is an integrated ATPL faster than modular?
Usually, because it is full time and continuous. A modular route can be just as quick for some people, but many take longer because they train around work.
Do airlines prefer integrated or modular pilots?
Both routes lead to the same EASA licence, and airlines recruit pilots from both. However, many airline and manufacturer cadet programmes are built around integrated training, so it can open specific doors. Check the requirements of the airlines you are interested in.
How many ATPL theory exams are there?
The current EASA ATPL(A) syllabus has 13 subjects, which must be passed within 18 months and six sittings.
Which route is best if I want to become an airline pilot as soon as possible?
For most people who can train full time, the integrated route is the most direct, because it combines all the stages into one continuous programme.
Do I need any flying experience to start an integrated course?
No. Integrated courses are designed for people with little or no flying experience.
Curious about what a typical training day looks like? Our Open Day is a chance to see a training campus, meet instructors and ask questions in person.
Sources
This article is for general information only. Training requirements are set by EASA and national authorities and can change; always check the current rules and course details with an approved training organisation.
