In the previous article, we already mentioned the 7 easiest ATPL exams and their passing rates. Despite the fact that none of the subjects can be called “easy,” some are thought to be easier because of how frequently they are passed and what is tested. Now, let’s take a look at the 5 hardest ATPL exams.
Meteorology
- Number of Questions: 84
- Exam Duration: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Medium to Hard
- 81% of papers passed
Meteorology is the study of the air environment and how different weather, cloud and atmospheric conditions, can affect flight operations. Although some of the material (e.g. frontal systems or TAFs) should be quite easy to tackle, the global weather may seem a pain to get through because sometimes it gets impossibly hard to understand the logic behind what you are taught in this module. It takes a solid commitment to studying to get through this one.
Practise Meteorology questions
Explore key subtopics & core concepts of the Meteorology Syllabus
Principles of Flight (Aeroplane)
- Number of Questions: 46
- Exam Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
- Difficulty: Hard
- 76% of papers passed
The Principles of Flight exam focuses on the forces acting on an aircraft, requiring a solid grasp of formulas and math. The syllabus, written at a university level, often feels overly complex, even for degree-level aerodynamicists. Practicing question banks is essential to align with EASA’s approach to problem-solving.
Practise Principles of Flight questions
Explore key subtopics & core concepts of the Principles of Flight Syllabus
General Navigation
- Number of Questions: 55
- Exam Duration: 2 hours 15 mins
- Difficulty: Medium to Hard
- 70% of papers passed
General Navigation covers essential navigational skills like chart reading, plotting, and speed calculations. The subject is challenging, but consistent practice helps build speed and accuracy. Aim for 90-95% in practice tests to ensure strong results under exam pressure.
Practise General Navigation questions
Explore key subtopics & core concepts of the General Navigation Syllabus
Performance (Aeroplane)
- Number of Questions: 45
- Exam Duration: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- 67% of papers passed
Performance is a crucial subject for real-life airline operations, focusing more on understanding aircraft performance principles than reading graphs. While graphs and tables remain, they now emphasize modern jet transports over piston aircraft.
Practise Performance questions
Explore key subtopics & core concepts of the Performance Syllabus
Flight Planning and Flight Monitoring
- Number of Questions: 42
- Exam Duration: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- 65% of papers passed
For this subject, you’ll need to learn about the various rules and factors required when planning and flying a route. Be ready to perform all the calculations needed for flight including the cruising level, speed, fuel, and ground clearance.
Similar to General Navigation, at first it might seem impossible to finish the exam in the allotted time – but be patient, practice makes perfect. Aim for 90% to 95% in Airhead.
Practise Flight Planning & Monitoring questions
Explore key subtopics & core concepts of the Flight Planning and Monitoring Syllabus
Conclusion
In conclusion, while none of the ATPL exams are easy, understanding the difficulty levels of each can help you focus your efforts. With dedication and practice, success is achievable.
