Question about this new bill.
 

I keep getting confused with everything I have read here... So in order to get hired, what is it, you need to have an atp rating? or is it just the written with atp mins?

I read it as both the pilot and co-pilot would hold an ATP.

Also keep in mind (remember from civics class) that this is a just the house version of the bill. Any legislation enacted into law via the house and senate will eventualy filter to the FAA where they will consider the law in the rule making process.

Point is, it's going to be a while before you see final language in the FARs. Maybe a year? Who knows.

Since its only a bill and only a bill, why not wait such questions until it becomes a law.

From the way I read it, you must have the ATP on your ticket.

as it stands now, an ATP will be required to be an FO in a 121 aircraft three years AFTER the bill is signed.

I didnt know that, that changes my whole perception of this thing. I guess later better than never.

If they pass it into law I don't believe it will go through the same rule making process, in fact I don't think the FAA will have any say in it what so ever (like the age 65 rule was legislation that went strait to the regs and skipped the rule making process). So you could end up seeing it within months.

I think once the bill is passed, in order to get hired you must hold an ATP on your certificate. It will be those already employed that the airlines will have 3 years to equip with the ATP certificate.

If the House and Senate pass the bill and the President signs it, it is then law, immediately or by whatever date set forth in the bill. No FAA involvement is necessary. Just like Age 65.

We all could use a refresher!
YouTube - Schoolhouse Rock- How a Bill Becomes a Law

Some people are counting their chickadees before they hatch as this bill attempts to clear hurdles in the senate where some senators are saying over my dead and cold body.:(

why not wait until it goes up to Capitol hill ?

Correct, the rulemaking process is for FAA-initiated changes.

If congress (both houses) passes a bill and the president signs it, it become law and is effective immediately, or on whatever date the language of the bill specifies. A law over-rides all FAA processes, they must comply with no further delays or sniveling.

Sounds like the bill specifies three years from signature, so assuming senate passage and Obama signature by early 2012, all airline pilots will need an ATP certificate by early 2015. The language is very simple, and there are no exemptions for current or furloughed pilots...plan on needing the ATP by 2015.

If you don't work for a bottom-feeder your company might provide the checkride at no cost to you (coincident with an annual PC), but they are certainly not required to do that. If you can upgrade before then, problem solved. If not, better start saving up now...