If you have been wondering what the difference is between integrated and modular flight training then you have come to the right place. I will explain in this post the two routes that you can take that will end up with a Frozen Air Transport Licence (fATPL).
Both routes require a serious commitment of both time and money and should not be something that you go into lightly. You should give serious thought into what it takes to get through the training.
Sit back while I explain Integrated v Modular Flight Training.
Integrated v Modular Flight Training.
Integrated flight training.
There are two ways you can end up with a fATPL licence. The first is what is called the integrated route.
When you sign up for integrated training you do all your training with 1 school who will take you from no experience to the issue of your licence.
They will teach you the ATPL theory, and give you flying experience.
Unlike the modular route you will not get a PPL (Private Pilots Licence) in your training program but of course this is something you can complete afterwards.
The theory learning will most likely be here in the UK but the majority of the flying at the big schools is done abroad. You would most likely be flying in New Zealand or Phoenix, Arizona.
The reason for this is that not only is it cheaper to fly abroad, but the weather is more suited to this. In the UK the weather can leave you grounded for long periods of time.
At the end of the course you will complete your MCC (multi crew co-operation) / JOC (Jet Orientation Course) and be able to apply for your licence.
From there the schools have holding pools where they try to place you with airlines.
Integrated flight training is super expensive you will need upwards of £110,000 (including living expenses).
Modular Flight Training.
Modular flight training is different in that you gradually build up to your licence issue and you can train at different FTO’s. Modular flight training can also fit around your current job allowing your to fly and study around a full-time job.
With modular flight training you start with a PPL. From here you then move on to do your ATPL theory at a ground school where you complete the 14 exams. You can either do ground school full-time or distance learning.
Next up you do your hours building to get you up to the CPL (Commercial Pilots Licence) requirements. It is cheaper to go abroad to somewhere like America and do this. The reason is that the cost per hour of aircraft rental is a lot cheaper.
Once you have done that you find a school or schools to teach you your CPL ME (multi engine) / IR (instrument rating).
Before finally completing your MCC / JOC which will lead to the issue of your fATPL.
The beauty of this is that it allows your to fit each section in as you have the money and to go abroad to take advantage of cheaper flying rates.
The modular flight training route is a lot cheaper than the integrated route.
It is possible to train for as little as £35,000 which when you compare that to the integrated route is a huge saving.
Ok, then what?
For the integrated route, depending on your school, you either sit in their hold pool waiting for them to try to place you at an airline. Or you go on the job hunt like everybody else and try to get a flying job.
If you took the modular route you are on your own and you start knocking doors, sending CV’s, applying online and try to get a job just like everyone else will be doing.
Do integrated students get all the jobs?
A big source of debate between the two routes is who gets the jobs at the end of it. There are some airlines who run schemes with the big schools and only take cadets from there such as Easyjet, BA & Virgin.
There are other airlines that will take modular students such as Ryanair, Jet2 and Flybe.
On top of this you have private jobs and cargo jobs.
Other essential information.
Either way, you need to know that there is no pilot shortage and there is no guarantee you will ever get to earn a single penny with your licence.
The benefit of the modular route over the integrated is the cost. If you don’t have £100,000k down the back of your sofa then the loan you will need to take out is huge. Do not get shiny jet syndrome and make sure you do the finances over and over and realise what you are getting yourself into.
Look at the salary you will likely earn IF you get a job and compare it to the loan repayments you will need to make.
Do not pay for flight training upfront. If someone tries to make you do so don’t walk away, RUN. Schools have gone bust before taking all the students money with them (read about Cabair).
Just remember everyone modular or integrated is a business trying to sell you something, so do in depth research before handing over any money.
