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DGAC — Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil

Licencia de Piloto de Transporte de Línea Aérea (ATPL)

Latin America

Estimated Cost

$50,000 - $100,000 USD total career investment

Estimated Timeline

4-6 years from zero experience

Overview

The DGAC ATPL is the highest pilot license in Latin American aviation. With the region experiencing significant airline growth and pilot demand, the DGAC ATPL positions you for Captain roles at major Latin American carriers like LATAM, Avianca, Volaris, and Copa Airlines.

Requirements

  • Minimum age: 21 years old
  • Class 1 medical certificate
  • 1,500 hours total flight time
  • Multi-engine and instrument experience
  • Pass ATPL theoretical knowledge exams
  • Meet specific PIC and multi-crew requirements
  • Pass ATPL skill test or upgrade assessment

Step-by-Step Process

1

Complete PPL, IR, and CPL training

2

Build hours through flight instruction or commercial operations

3

Study for and pass ATPL theoretical knowledge exams

4

Accumulate required total and PIC flight hours

5

Apply to airlines for type rating and employment

6

Complete type rating on airline aircraft

7

Fly as First Officer and build multi-crew experience

8

Meet ATPL experience requirements and upgrade to Captain

Career Paths

  • Major airline Captain (LATAM, Avianca, Copa, Volaris, etc.)
  • Cargo operations Captain
  • Corporate aviation Captain
  • Training Captain and examiner
  • Aviation management positions
  • International airline positions (with license conversion)

Test Your DGAC ATPL Knowledge

Take a free DGAC quiz and find out if you are ready for your ATPL exams. Instant results with explanations.

Test Your Knowledge

Also try the training cost calculator