Flightexpress

I need to get my commercial multi add on. I was talking to a friend, and he told me I should just do it with the ATP. I meet the ATP requirements. Is this something I can do all at once? I know I need to take my written.

Thanks

JohnBurke

Do you have a multi-engine rating now? Generally when you do your ATP, you're not being taught to fly; you're being checked against a standard, and your ability is expected to be to that standard. If you've never flown a multi-engine airplane, you want your first hour to be during your ATP course?

QRH Bingo

61.153(d) states you must already be in possession of a CPL. But it does not specifically state it needs to be for a multi-engine class.
A little light reading thru the ACS and I found my answer.. yes you can do it.

"If an applicant for an ATP certificate in the airplane category, multiengine class rating (AMEL or AMES) does not hold an airplane multiengine class rating on his or her current pilot certificate, or current airplane multiengine rating or multiengine type rating on a foreign license, the pilot must perform the Maneuvering with One Engine Inoperative Task and the VMC Demonstration Task in accordance with the Commercial Pilot – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-7 as amended), Area of Operation X, Tasks A and B."

61.159(a)(3) states you need 50 hours in class. It is unlikely any flight school (and insurer) will let someone "solo" a multi, so how would you plan on obtaining these hours? Unless you got a friend who is an MEI, their rates are typically at a premium. Likely $100/hr so that's $5,000 you're gonna blow on just instructor fees with nothing in return.
*Edit* Assuming you have your Private Pilot Multi since you stated you meet the requirements? If so, disregard the above paragraph.

I would advise against attempting to combine the two...much like combining your private with instrument checkrides. Sure, it's legal, but is it wise? Just my $0.02.