An Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is the highest level of aircraft pilot certification issued by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). It authorizes the holder to act as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of multi-crew aircraft in commercial air transport operations.
The ATPL represents a professional qualification demonstrating advanced aeronautical knowledge, flight experience, and regulatory compliance. It is essential for pilots seeking command positions in airlines or large-scale aviation operations.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Eligibility Check
Visit the Personnel Licensing (PEL) Office at the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority headquarters, Entebbe International Airport, for an eligibility assessment.
Officials will verify whether you meet the minimum requirements stated in the eligibility section (age, experience, medical certificate, English proficiency, etc.).
If deemed eligible, you will be cleared to book the ATPL Composite Conversion Examination.
Step 2: Book and Sit for the ATPL Examination
Pay the examination fee of UGX 200,000 and register for the composite conversion exam.
This exam assesses your theoretical knowledge of aviation law, meteorology, navigation, flight planning, and related subjects.
Upon passing the exam, you will qualify to proceed with the license validation process.
Step 3: Fill and Submit the Application Form
Obtain Form O-PEL004 (Application for Airline Transport Pilot License) from the PEL Office or download it from the UCAA official website.
Fill out the form completely and attach the necessary documents listed below.
Submit your completed application to:
Director General
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority
P.O. Box 5536, Kampala, Uganda
Alternatively, you may deliver it in person at the UCAA Personnel Licensing Office.
Step 4: Attach Required Documents
Ensure you include all the following documents in your application package:
- Duly filled ATPL application form (Form O-PEL004)
- Aeronautical Experience Form for the license being applied for
- Flight Summary Form
- Application for English Language Proficiency Endorsement
- Application for Flight Radio Telephony Operator’s License
- Copy of your foreign license and valid Ugandan medical certificate
- Logbook (plus photocopies of the last two pages)
- Certified copy of passport or national ID
- Four passport-size photographs (2cm x 2.5cm)
- Letter of verification from the issuing authority of your foreign license
- Logbook evidence (original or certified copies)
- English translation of the foreign license, if applicable
- Proof of payment receipt for the application fee
Step 5: Pay Application Fees
Pay the application fee of UGX 100,000 to UCAA’s designated bank account.
Attach the bank slip or receipt to your application form as proof of payment.
Additional examination fees apply for individual subjects, such as:
| Subject | Fee (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Aviation Law, Flight Rules & Procedures | 40,000 |
| Flight Planning | 35,000 |
| Meteorology (Paper I) | 30,000 |
| Meteorology (Paper II) | 27,000 |
| Navigation General | 35,000 |
| Radio Aids | 35,000 |
| Flying Test / Assistant | 40,000 |
| Flying Instructor Rating or Renewal | 40,000 |
| Type Rating Flight Test | 30,000 |
| Initial Twin Rating Flight Test (CPL) | 40,000 |
Step 6: Processing and Issuance
The processing time for an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is 2–3 weeks.
Once approved, you will receive a notification via phone or email to collect your license from the UCAA office.
Carry your original identification document when collecting the license.
Eligibility
To qualify for an ATPL in Uganda, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Hold a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and Instrument Rating (IR)
- Hold a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate from a UCAA-designated examiner
- Possess English Language Proficiency certification
- Meet the required flying experience hours as verified through the logbook
- Hold a foreign ATPL or CPL with instrument rating from another ICAO member state
- Pass the UCAA composite conversion examination
- Demonstrate aeronautical knowledge and competency in all relevant aircraft operations
Fees
| Item | Fee (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | 100,000 |
| Composite Conversion Examination | 200,000 |
| Subject-specific ATPL Exam Papers | 27,000 – 40,000 each |
Validity
- The validation certificate for the ATPL is valid for 12 months for applicants under 40 years of age.
- For applicants aged 40 years and above, validity is 6 months.
- The license remains valid as long as the foreign license, ratings, and medical certificate remain valid.
Processing Time
The application typically takes 2–3 weeks from submission to issuance, depending on verification and document completeness.
Office Contacts
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA)
Entebbe International Airport
Airport Road – Entebbe, Uganda
P.O. Box 5536, Kampala
Tel: +256 (312) 352 000
Fax: +256 (414) 320964
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.caa.go.ug
Important Instructions
- License privileges may only be exercised when currency and competency requirements are met.
- The ATPL holder must maintain recent experience as required by UCAA.
- For holders aged 40+, the medical validity period reduces from 12 months to 6 months.
- Licenses are only valid when signed by the holder in ink.
- Falsification or operation without a valid license constitutes professional misconduct.
Need for the Document
An Airline Transport Pilot License authorizes a pilot to act as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) or co-pilot on commercial multi-crew aircraft operations. It is essential for:
- Employment as a captain in commercial airlines
- Command responsibilities in multi-pilot operations
- Regulatory compliance under Uganda’s Civil Aviation Regulations
- Recognition for international commercial flight operations
Additional Information
Applicants are encouraged to:
- Ensure their foreign licenses and ratings are current and valid.
- Complete the conversion examination before applying.
- Maintain medical fitness and updated flight experience logs.
