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CAACadvancedCode: CAAC-ATPL

CAAC ATPL (China) Exam Prep

The CAAC ATPL (China) exam has 200 questions, a Varies (multi-exam format) time limit and a 70% pass mark. This guide covers the topics it tests, study tips from a former airline pilot, a week-by-week plan.

The exam at a glance

200

Questions

70%

Pass mark

Varies (multi-exam format)

Time limit

Cost

Varies by training organization

Prerequisites

Enrollment in CAAC-approved training program, valid medical certificate

About the CAAC-ATPL exam

CAAC ATPL exams are required for airline pilot operations in China, the world's fastest-growing aviation market. While structurally similar to EASA/ICAO exams, they incorporate China-specific regulations (CCAR) and operational requirements.

Topics Covered

1Chinese aviation regulations (CCAR)
2Aircraft systems and general knowledge
3Instrumentation
4Mass and balance
5Performance for transport aircraft
6Flight planning
7Human factors
8Meteorology (emphasis on Asian weather patterns)
9Navigation (general and radio)
10Operational procedures
11Principles of flight
12English aviation language proficiency

Expert Study Tips

1

CAAC exams can be taken in Chinese or English

2

Chinese aviation is the fastest-growing market — CAAC ATPL demand is high

3

CCAR regulations differ from FAA/EASA in several areas — study the differences

4

English language proficiency (ICAO Level 4+) is separately tested

5

Many Chinese airlines send cadets abroad for training but require CAAC conversion

6

Focus on high-altitude operations — China has many airports above 10,000 ft

Suggested Study Timeline

1

Weeks 1-4

Cover all exam topics systematically with detailed notes

2

Weeks 5-8

Deep study of complex subjects, work advanced practice problems

3

Weeks 9-12

Full-length practice exams under timed conditions

4

Weeks 13-15

Focus on weak areas, revisit difficult concepts

5

Week 16

Final comprehensive review and exam scheduling

Recommended Resources

  • CCAR (China Civil Aviation Regulations)
  • CAAC approved training materials
  • ICAO standards (CAAC aligns closely with ICAO)
  • CAAC English proficiency test preparation materials

More practice by subject

CAAC ATPL (China): FAQ

How many questions are on the CAAC ATPL (China) exam?

The CAAC ATPL (China) exam has 200 questions. You have Varies (multi-exam format) and need 70% or higher to pass.

What are the prerequisites for the CAAC ATPL (China) exam?

Enrollment in CAAC-approved training program, valid medical certificate

How much does the CAAC ATPL (China) exam cost?

The CAAC ATPL (China) exam costs Varies by training organization. This is the testing fee only and does not include study materials or training courses.

Ready to start studying?

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Renzo Madueño

Written and reviewed by Renzo Madueño

Former Airbus A320 First Officer (Avianca), FAA commercial pilot · Founder, Rotate Pilot

Exam formats, fees and pass rates on this page come from the authority's published sources where a source is linked; the study advice comes from preparing for these tests and flying the line. Rules and formats change, so if something here is out of date, tell us and we fix it.

Last reviewed . Rotate Pilot is independent and not affiliated with the FAA, PSI or any aviation authority.