Multi Crew Pilot Licence (MPL): Everything You Need to Know
Requirements, training phases, MPL vs ATPL comparison, career outlook in Europe, and how to take your first step toward the airline cockpit.
If you want to become an airline pilot, the Multi Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) is one of the most direct routes available in Europe today. Created by ICAO in 2006 and fully integrated into the EASA regulatory framework under EU Part-FCL, the MPL is a competency-based, ab-initio programme that takes a cadet from zero flying experience straight to the airline first officer seat — without the detour through solo hour-building that traditional pathways require.
With Europe projected to face a shortfall of roughly 19,000 pilots by 2032 if no corrective measures are taken, airlines are actively partnering with approved training organisations to launch MPL cadet schemes and fast-track the next generation of pilots. Understanding exactly what the MPL involves, what it demands, and what it opens up for your career is essential if you want to pilot that want to become an airline pilot.
This guide covers every aspect of the Multi Crew Pilot Licence — from EASA requirements and the four training phases to the MPL versus ATPL debate, MCC training, pilot shortage statistics, and how ERAH Havacılık Akademisi prepares its students for exactly this career path.
What Is a Multi Crew Pilot Licence (MPL)?
A Multi Crew Pilot Licence is a pilot licence that authorises its holder to act as co-pilot of a commercial multi-crew aircraft. Unlike the traditional ATPL or CPL route — which builds skills incrementally through solo flight time, PPL, CPL, and instrument rating — the MPL is structured from day one around the airline environment. Every phase simulates the realities of a commercial cockpit, developing threat and error management (TEM), multi-crew cooperation, and automation-handling skills alongside core flying abilities.
The MPL concept was formally introduced by ICAO as an amendment to Annex 1 (Personnel Licensing) in November 2006. It is based on a competency-based training (CBT) approach rather than the historic task-based, minimum-hours model. This means progression is tied to demonstrated ability across defined core competencies — not simply to logged hours.
Within the EASA system, the MPL is issued under EU Part-FCL and is fully recognised across all 31 EASA member states without additional validation. An MPL earned anywhere in the EU allows you to work as a First Officer for any European airline operating under EASA rules. The licence is also recognised by all ICAO contracting states, though it is not issued in the United States or Canada.
Key fact: The MPL is the only EASA licence specifically designed for airline co-pilot duties from day one. It integrates a type rating (e.g., Airbus A320 or Boeing 737) into the training programme itself, so graduates arrive at the airline already type-rated and line-ready.
What Are the EASA Requirements for the MPL?
Under EASA Part-FCL (Commission Regulation (EU) No 1178/2011), the entry requirements and training obligations for an MPL are clearly defined. If you are planning a career in European aviation and want to become an airline pilot, these are the criteria you must meet:
Entry Requirements
- Age: Minimum 18 years old at the start of the course.
- Medical: Must hold a valid EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate. This must be obtained before beginning training, as a disqualifying medical condition discovered mid-programme creates serious complications.
- Language: Fluent in English — both verbal and written — at ICAO Language Proficiency Level 4 or above. English is the universal language of aviation and all EASA ATPL examinations are conducted in English.
- Education: Good foundation in mathematics, English, and science at secondary school level.
- Right to work: The right to live and work freely in the EU is generally required by airline-sponsored MPL programmes, though this varies by operator.
- Airline sponsorship: The MPL course must be completed at an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) that has a specific arrangement with a commercial airline. The training is tailored to that airline’s aircraft type and standard operating procedures from the start.
Training Volume Requirements
- Theoretical knowledge: Approximately 750 hours covering all 13 ATPL subjects plus KSA 100 (Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes), delivered through classroom instruction, computer-based training (CBT), and self-study.
- Practical flight training: A minimum of 240 hours across all four phases, including Pilot Flying and Pilot Not Flying roles in both real aircraft and full flight simulators.
- Take-offs and landings: At least 6 to 12 take-offs and landings in a real aircraft (the EASA minimum was revised from 12 to 6 under Opinion 16/2016, provided that an adequate catch-up process is in place).
- Type rating: The advanced phase includes type rating on the sponsoring airline’s commercial aircraft — typically an Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 family aircraft.
Important: Unlike the ATPL or CPL, the MPL does not include PPL privileges. An MPL holder cannot fly recreationally as pilot-in-command without completing additional training and a skill test. The MPL is strictly an airline licence. If you want to fly for leisure as well as for work, the integrated ATPL or a CPL/PPL combination may suit you better — speak to a training advisor at ERAH to compare options.
What Are the Four Phases of MPL Training?
The MPL training course is completed as one continuous, integrated programme at a single ATO. It does not allow students to transfer between unrelated schools mid-programme. Each phase builds directly on the previous one, embedding airline-standard competencies from the earliest stages.
Core Phase — Fundamental Flight Skills
Cadets develop basic airmanship in single-engine piston aircraft, progressing to PPL standards including a Night Rating. Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) is also included in this phase. Flight training takes place in real aircraft — typically a Cessna 172 or Diamond DA40 — for approximately 65–100 hours. The foundation of sound aeronautical decision-making and individual piloting skill is established here.
Basic Phase — Introduction to Multi-Crew Operations
This phase introduces the concept of two-pilot operations. Cadets begin flying as Pilot Flying (PF) and Pilot Not Flying / Pilot Monitoring (PNF/PM), practising the division of duties and the communication protocols of a professional cockpit. Multi-engine piston aircraft and FNPT II simulators are used. Instrument Rating fundamentals and basic IFR procedures are introduced alongside initial crew resource management (CRM) training.
Intermediate Phase — Airline-Specific Simulator Training
Training transitions to advanced flight simulators — typically a Boeing 737 or Airbus A320 fixed-base or full-flight simulator. Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) is deepened here, with a strong focus on Threat and Error Management (TEM), standard operating procedures (SOPs) aligned with the partner airline, and real-world scenario handling. This phase bridges the gap between initial ab-initio training and airline line operations.
Advanced Phase — Type Rating, LOFT, and Line Training
The final phase integrates everything: full type rating training on the airline’s specific aircraft, Low Visibility Operations (LVO), and Line Oriented Flight Training (LOFT) scenarios that replicate real-world airline routes and emergency situations. Cadets perform a minimum of 6 take-offs and landings in the actual aircraft. On successful completion of the skill test, the MPL is issued and the cadet transitions to line training with the sponsoring airline.
The full MPL programme — including theoretical knowledge training — typically takes between 18 and 24 months to complete. Weather conditions at the flight training base can influence the overall timeline, particularly during the Core Phase. Academies based in high-flyability regions — such as southern Spain or central Turkey — offer a significant advantage here, with the training base at Isparta in Turkey providing over 340 suitable flying days per year.
MPL and MCC: How Do They Connect?
Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) is a structured training programme that teaches pilots how to operate safely and efficiently as part of a two-person flight crew. It covers crew resource management, shared situational awareness, threat and error management, communication protocols, and workload management in a high-pressure environment.
For pilots following the traditional ATPL route, completing an MCC certificate is a separate, standalone requirement before they can begin a multi-crew type rating. EASA introduced an enhanced version — the Airline Pilot Standard MCC (APS MCC) — in December 2017, which acts as a stronger bridge between basic licensing and airline line operations.
Within the MPL, MCC principles are not an add-on. They are embedded throughout all four phases from the very first day of practical training. This is one of the defining advantages of the MPL: traditional pilot training developed individual, single-pilot skills and then attempted to translate them into the multi-crew environment. The MPL is designed to build the multi-crew mindset from the outset — which aligns much more naturally with the reality of commercial airline operations.
The key difference: MCC is a certificate that CPL and ATPL holders add to their licence before seeking airline employment. In an MPL programme, multi-crew cooperation is the methodology of the entire training — not a final module. This produces graduates who are not just technically rated but genuinely culturally prepared for airline cockpit life.
For pilots who have already obtained a CPL or are pursuing the ATPL pathway, a dedicated MCC course and the APS MCC are critical stepping stones. ERAH’s simulation infrastructure — including ALSIM ALX, ELITE FNPT II, Flight Deck Solutions A320, Redbird, and Agronn simulators — supports both standalone MCC training and the full integrated ATPL programme.
MPL vs ATPL: Which Pilot Licence Path Is Right for You?
This is the most common question aspiring airline pilots ask. The honest answer is that neither is universally superior — each suits a different profile of student and career goal. Here is a structured comparison to help you decide:
| Factor | MPL | ATPL (Integrated) |
|---|---|---|
| Training approach | Competency-based; airline-specific from day one | Hours-based; builds general flying skills first |
| Airline sponsorship | Required — tied to a specific airline | Not required — self-funded route possible |
| Speed to first officer seat | Faster — direct path with type rating included | Slower — additional MCC + type rating needed after CPL |
| Flexibility | Limited — tied to airline until 1,500 hours / ATPL | High — can work for any airline, any aircraft |
| Solo flight privileges | No — requires additional training for PPL/CPL privileges | Yes — full private and commercial solo flying rights |
| Simulator ratio | Higher — greater use of FFS throughout | Lower in early phases; more real aircraft hours built |
| Cost | Often lower total cost (type rating included, airline co-funded) | Higher self-funded cost; type rating is a separate expense |
| Risk | Airline dependency risk — if airline folds, retraining required | No single-employer risk; licence is universally portable |
| EASA recognition | Valid in all 31 EASA states | Valid in all 31 EASA states |
| Path to ATPL | After 1,500 flight hours as co-pilot | After 1,500 hours total flight time (including 500 multi-crew) |
The MPL is the ideal route if you have already been selected by an airline’s cadet programme and want the most direct path to the cockpit. The integrated ATPL is the better choice if you value flexibility, want the option to instruct, fly freelance, or explore multiple aircraft types before settling on an airline. ERAH offers both the Integrated ATPL and the Modular ATPL to accommodate both profiles.
Why Is the MPL Growing in Popularity Across Europe?
The short answer: Europe is running short of airline pilots, and the MPL is one of the most efficient tools for producing airline-ready first officers.
According to industry analysis, Europe’s pilot supply will remain roughly balanced until approximately 2025, after which a supply gap will emerge. By 2032, the continent could face a shortage of around 19,000 pilots if no corrective action is taken. Simultaneously, European pilot training is the world’s largest regional market — valued at approximately USD 3.27 billion in 2025 and projected to grow at a compound annual rate of nearly 12% through 2034.
Airlines have responded by expanding cadet programmes and forming ATO partnerships. As aviation experts note, airlines are increasingly turning to MPL programmes as a fast-track solution — developing pilots in partnership with flight schools rather than waiting for the open market to supply them. Carriers such as Lufthansa, easyJet, Volotea, and various Scandinavian and Central European operators have all run active MPL cadet schemes.
From a strategic training perspective, analysts note that now is an excellent time to begin pilot training in Europe. Those who qualify ahead of the expected 2026–2028 hiring surge will be best positioned to choose among multiple airline offers, rather than entering a constrained market. The window is open — but it will not stay open indefinitely.
What Happens After You Complete Your MPL?
Upon completing the Advanced Phase skill test, you graduate with an MPL that includes a type rating for the sponsoring airline’s aircraft. You are then restricted to that specific airline as co-pilot until you accumulate 1,500 flight hours, at which point you become eligible to convert your MPL to a full ATPL, giving you unrestricted licence privileges.
Career Progression: A Typical MPL Pathway
- Graduation (0 hours): MPL issued with type rating; join airline as First Officer.
- 1,500 hours: ATPL available; full licence privileges, free to move between airlines.
- 4,000+ hours: Eligible for Captain upgrade consideration at most European carriers (subject to airline requirements).
- Captain salary range (2024–2025): European Captains earned between €120,000 and €270,000 annually, a significant increase on prior years driven by the pilot shortage.
If you are unable to complete your MPL programme — for example because the sponsoring airline ceases operations — the situation can be complex. There have been well-documented historical cases of cadets being stranded when airlines collapsed mid-programme. Since April 2016, EASA removed the requirement to complete line training with a specific airline before the licence is issued, which provides some additional security. However, it is worth discussing contingency provisions with your ATO and the airline before committing to a programme.
Extended privileges after MPL: An MPL holder can also extend their licence to include PPL(A) privileges, CPL(A) privileges, or single-pilot Instrument Rating — all require completing the relevant additional training and passing a skill test. An MPL does not disqualify you from any future licence pathway; it simply does not automatically include those privileges.
Why Train with ERAH Havacılık Akademisi?
Whether you are pursuing the MPL pathway through an airline cadet programme or building toward an ATPL with the ambition of becoming an airline pilot, the quality of your foundational training determines everything that follows. ERAH Havacılık Akademisi has been Turkey’s most trusted aviation training institution since 2008, and it remains the country’s only integrated aviation training campus.
ERAH at a Glance
- Founded 2008 — Turkey’s most experienced pilot training academy
- Located at Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport — 340+ flyable days per year, 3,000m international-standard runway
- 25+ training aircraft: Cessna, Tecnam, Piper, Diamond — Turkey’s largest Cessna fleet
- Advanced simulators: ALSIM ALX, ELITE FNPT II, Flight Deck Solutions A320, Redbird, Agronn
- Protocol agreements with Turkish Airlines (THY) and SunExpress
- 98% first-choice airline placement rate among graduates
- Integrated ATPL programme: 823 hours theoretical + 208 hours flight & simulator = qualified in 15 months
- SHGM-approved ATO with international certification standards
For European students who want to become an airline pilot and are considering training abroad, Turkey offers a compelling combination: ICAO-standard training, a cost structure that is significantly more accessible than Western European alternatives, an ideal training climate, and world-class simulator facilities. ERAH’s graduates are flying for major carriers across Europe and the Middle East — proof that where you train does not limit where you can fly.
ERAH offers the Integrated ATPL programme, the Modular ATPL for working professionals, and the PPL (Private Pilot Licence) as an entry point. Each programme is designed with a clear progression toward airline employment. If you want to become an airline pilot and are ready to explore which pathway suits you, ERAH’s admissions team will walk you through every option.
Ready to Start Your Pilot Career?
Talk to an ERAH training adviser today. Whether you are exploring the MPL pathway, interested in integrated ATPL, or just starting your research — our team will give you honest, detailed guidance at no obligation.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Multi Crew Pilot Licence
What is a Multi Crew Pilot Licence (MPL)?
A Multi Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) is a pilot licence specified by ICAO and implemented under EASA Part-FCL that authorises its holder to act as co-pilot on commercial multi-crew aircraft. It is a competency-based, ab-initio programme completed at an airline-connected ATO, integrating ATPL theory, multi-crew cooperation, and a type rating into a single continuous course lasting approximately 18–24 months.
What are the requirements for an MPL under EASA?
You must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate, be fluent in English, and complete your training at an ATO that has a formal arrangement with a commercial airline. Training includes approximately 750 hours of ATPL-level theory and a minimum of 240 hours of practical flight training across four phases.
How many phases does MPL training consist of?
The EASA MPL programme is structured across four phases: Core (fundamental flight skills), Basic (introduction to multi-crew operations and instrument flying), Intermediate (airline-specific simulator training with MCC and TEM), and Advanced (type rating, LOFT, low-visibility operations, and base training in the real aircraft).
What is the difference between MPL and ATPL?
The MPL is airline-sponsored and takes you from zero experience to First Officer on a specific airline’s aircraft. You are tied to that airline until 1,500 hours, and the licence does not include PPL or solo privileges. The ATPL is more flexible — it allows instructing, charter flying, and free movement between airlines — but requires separate MCC training and a type rating after CPL. The right choice depends on whether you have an airline sponsor and how much career flexibility you want.
Is the MPL recognised across all of Europe?
Yes. An MPL issued in any of the 31 EASA member states is automatically recognised across all other EASA states under EU Part-FCL. It is also recognised by all ICAO contracting states, though it cannot be used to fly US-registered aircraft for a US carrier.
What is MCC and do I need it for the MPL?
Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) is training in how to operate a two-pilot cockpit effectively — covering CRM, workload management, threat and error management, and communication. For ATPL pilots it is a separate certificate required before a type rating. In the MPL, MCC is not a separate add-on; it is embedded throughout all four training phases as the foundational methodology of the programme.
How long does MPL training take in Europe?
Most EASA MPL programmes take between 18 and 24 months from enrolment to graduation, depending on the airline, the ATO, weather conditions during flight training, and individual cadet progress. Theoretical knowledge training alone accounts for approximately 750 hours; practical flight training adds a minimum of 240 hours across all phases.
Can I train in Turkey and work as an airline pilot in Europe?
Yes. ICAO-standard training at an accredited Turkish ATO, such as ERAH Havacılık Akademisi in Isparta, builds the foundations required for an airline career. Turkey’s SHGM aligns its training standards with ICAO, and ERAH graduates have a 98% first-choice airline placement rate. ERAH also holds protocol agreements with Turkish Airlines and SunExpress, offering concrete pathways into airline employment for its graduates.
Conclusion: Is the MPL the Right Path for You?
The Multi Crew Pilot Licence is one of the most powerful tools available to aspiring airline pilots in Europe today. If you have secured an airline cadet sponsorship, or if you are actively targeting airlines that run MPL programmes, it offers the most direct route possible from zero experience to the airline cockpit — with the type rating built in and multi-crew skills developed from day one rather than bolted on at the end.
For students who want to become an airline pilot without an immediate airline sponsor, the Integrated ATPL remains the strongest foundation: it builds genuine flight experience, preserves career flexibility, and creates the full licence privileges that open the widest range of opportunities. Whichever pathway you choose, grounding that training in a world-class facility — with ideal flying weather, modern simulators, and proven airline placement results — gives you the best possible start.
ERAH Havacılık Akademisi has been preparing pilots for exactly this career since 2008. If you want to become an airline pilot and are ready to take the first step, the ERAH team is ready to guide you.
