Originally Posted by
Flying Ninja
Before August 1, 2014, you need to be 21 to take the test. You then have 24 calendar months to take your ATP check ride. Thus, if you are 21, you will be 23 to be eligible for the ATP certificate. Sucks for the folks that turns 21 on July 31, as they will have exactly 1 day to pass that check ride.
After August 1, 2014, you fall under the new rules which permits a R-ATP (restricted ATP). This will allow you to be hired by an airline but you have to meet a laundry list of requirements to be able to obtain a R-ATP.
Long story short, take your ATP before August 1, 2014 if you can. If you can't, enjoy the added expense (up to $15,000) and have fun.
You can obtain a R-atp right now. A pilot 21 years old can receive a R-atp if he meets the standard 61.159 atp requirements also with only 200 hours x-c. I think many people are misinformed about the college 141, which permits the TT reduction. The age and xc reduction applies to everyone.