How to remove R-ATP/PIC limitations via a DPE
 

I just removed the R-ATP and PIC limitations from my pilot certificate using a DPE. I couldn't find a good condensed source of information for how to do it, so I'm gonna document it here.

Yes, if your airline will do this for you for free, then go ahead and do that, of course. However, if your airline won't/can't outside upgrade and you need/want an unrestricted ATP now, then this worked.

Instructions are based on direction from the PWM FSDO. It's never a bad idea to check with your local FSDO first, because y'know the FAA. If you'll work with a DPE who hasn't done this before, then you'll probably have to lead them through the process. Be prepared.

I needed one paper 8710 for each limitation that I was removing. This was explicitly stated by the FSDO inspector. I removed two limitations, so I submitted two 8710s. Neither the DPE nor the FAA gave me a hard time about submitting two forms at once.

If you're removing a 61.167 (R-ATP) restriction, then bring your logbooks to prove your aeronautical experience. If you're removing a PIC-in-type limitation, then bring proof that you have twenty-five hours of supervised operating experience (SOE: flying, not monitoring). If you're removing both limitations, then bring it all, of course.

On the 8710, make sure:

• the certificate that you select is ATP.
• the request that you select is limitation removal.
• you specify the specific limitation on the form.
• Part II is blank.
• you complete Parts III and IV.
• the DPE certifies that they've reviewed your logbook and/or training record.
• The appropriate attachments are selected on the form and included. If you're submitting two forms, make sure that the correct paperwork is attached to each form.

The whole thing takes half an hour to an hour, depending on how fast and/or thorough your DPE is.

If your FSDO provides different instructions, then this thread would be a good place to document that. Just sayin'.

No, I can't lead you through the process personally. Please don't PM me about such stuff... just read the post above. Sorry.

Good luck!

This is GOLD!

What is a restricted atp? I thought working at a 121 carrier required a full atp

Required to be PIC, restricted allows you to serve as SIC.

Google FAR 14 CFR 61.160

Does passing the single engine ATP checkride automatically remove the limitation?

There are a multiple things now that allow someone to get a restricted ATP. Military, graduating from an approved flight school with 60 credits of aviation courses and a bachelors or approved school with 30 credits and an associates. May be more, but those are the ones I know off the top of my head.

For some of us older guys, it's also having the 1500 hours TT but not the 500 hours XC. The R-ATP requires at least 200 hours XC, so you still have to know how to fly from point A to point B.

No, it doesn't. You'd still have the restriction, but you wouldn't be limited to ASE commercial privileges.

The only way to remove the limitation is to meet the age and aeronautical experience requirements.

I was assuming I had to meet the age and experience requirements for ATP in order to take the practical test for a single engine ATP. The only reason I am getting an R-ATP is because I’m 100 hours short on cross country time. I figured when I get the 500 cross country and take the ATP single engine checkride that would show the FAA that I now have 500 hours cross country and they would remove the R from my ATP. So it sounds like on the day of my single-engine ATP I’ll have to have the examiner do what the OP did in the first post as well and get that restriction removed.

I guess I didn’t clarify. I’m starting at a Régional next month. After training I’ll have an R-ATP because I’m short on cross country time. Once I get to 500 hours of cross country I’ll be doing the single-engine ATP add on.