I do not believe this is entirely true. If you read the reg carefully, even an expired written is still good if you have completed the approved captain upgrade class at a 121 carrier. If somebody could please post the FAR excerpt, that would be great. Can't do it from this computer and won't be home for a few days. And yes, I did discuss this with a fed about two weeks ago...
The bear
Thanks orphic, Just found this in the FAR forum:
61.39 Prerequisites for practical tests.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section, an applicant for an airline transport pilot certificate or an additional rating to an airline transport certificate may take the practical test for that certificate or rating with an expired knowledge test report, provided that the applicant:
(1) Is employed as a flight crewmember by a certificate holder under part 121, 125, or 135 of this chapter at the time of the practical test and has satisfactorily accomplished that operator's approved....