Federal Aviation Administration

Washington DC

USA

Dear Sir or Madam:

My letter is concerning the ATP certification

I would like to apply for the FAA ATP, as I now have the right to work in the 

United States. However, the recent requirements in accordance with FAR 61 

subpart G 61.151 to 61.156, particularly with reference to 61.156 (a) thru (b)

(ATP CTP), is preventing me from applying for the FAA ATP without the 

prerequisite as described in 61.156 (a) thru (b).

I am holding a valid and current EASA ATPL, FAA CPL (A), and FAA CFI 

(I)(II)(MEI). 

My type ratings are: Learjet 20/30 (Learjet 35A) and CE650 VII (III). I fly on both 

types as captain in worldwide operations under the Danish AOC # 030 in 

commercial operations.

My request is: 

1. For a waiver for the ATP prerequisite requirements set forth in CFR 61.156 (a) 

thru (b) and:

2. For the FAA to recognize my EASA ATPL, and on the basis of that certificate 

as well as my FAA CPL and CFI and my academic merits as well as my flying 

experience, issue me an FAA ATP. 

There is a rationale to my request as I:

 Hold an FAA CPL (A) 2609720 and have kept current on my FAA CFI 

(I)(II)(MEI)

 Have a European EASA ATPL (A) DK.FCL.05413 including ratings on 

LRJET20/30 (35A) and CE650 (VII and III).

 Fly as captain in worldwide operations under AOC# DK 030.

 Act as Security Manager for North Flying A/S (EKYT), where I lead and 

train my colleagues on up-to-date security procedures, as well as writing 

and updating security manuals.

 Graduated with honors from ERAU (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical 

University in the U.S.A. with the degree Bachelor of Science in 

Professional Aeronautics with minor in Aviation Safety.
 Worked as Flight Instructor in California teaching in San Carlos (KSQL) 

and Napa (KAPC) for JAL (Japan Airlines IASCO Flight Training 

Center).

 Since 2007 fly in commercial operations in Europe under JAA and later 

EASA rule.

 I have over 5300 hours total time of which 1900 hours are on Lear35A 

and 850 hours on Citation 650.

 Have taken, in Europe, my MCC (Multi Crew) course on FTD King Air 

350.

When I read the FAR 61.153 and 61.156, as well as AC61-138, it appears to me 

that I have already covered those topic areas throughout my extensive training, 

formal education, and flying experience, as PIC in commercial jet operation.

After July 31. 2014 stricter requirements were in effect with regards to the 

issuance of the FAA ATP. Unfortunately I did not have the option to apply for the 

ATP before this date, due to various reasons.

I understand the rules have changed since I lived in the United States, regarding 

the ATP. Now there is a larger financial requirement associated with obtaining 

the ATP.

In light of this, and based on my experience, as well as my academic merits, I 

would like to ask the FAA to waive the requirements as described in 61.153 (e) 

and 61.156 (a) thru (b) without the major financial outlay from me that it 

otherwise would involve.

I believe that my level of safe operation, and my continued focus on security, as 

a security manager for my current employer, along with my flying skills and 

academic record, and continued contribution to the flying community and public, 

warrant the issuance of an FAA ATP based on my European EASA ATPL, FAA 

CPL (A), and my FAA CFI. 

As I have contributed positively to the flying community before in the U.S.A., I 

would very much like to contribute again in the United States to the future safe 

operations of commercial air transport. I hope the FAA can help me in this 

matter. 

I thank you for your time and for your understanding in this matter. I look forward 

to your response.

Sincerely,

Mikkel Grandjean-Thomsen