Instrument Rating

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We offer both UK CAA and EASA instrument rating LPC, renewal / revalidation. These can be conducted in the same flight and in the UK. We also offer EASA instrument rating LST / IRT for initial tests. These have to be conducted in Europe and can be at an airport of your choice. Please contact us for more information about booking your LST or LPC.

Taking Flight in Clouds / Your Guide to Instrument Ratings for Pilots

Piloting an aircraft through clear skies is exhilarating, but what about when clouds or poor visibility block your view? That's where instrument ratings (IRs) come in, empowering pilots to navigate safely even under Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC). This article unpacks the different types of IRs available, their training requirements, and helps you choose the right one for your goals.

Unlocking IFR Flight

An IR goes beyond your basic pilot's licence, allowing you to fly solely by relying on instruments in challenging weather conditions. This opens up new possibilities, from flying through cloud layers to safely reaching your destination when visibility drops. However, not all IRs are created equal, each offering varying degrees of freedom within controlled airspace.

Navigating the IR Maze

For fixed-wing pilots, the options include:

• Full IR: The most versatile option, valid for both single and multi-engine aircraft, but requires dedicated training
• Competency-Based IR (CB-IR): Offers the same privileges as the Full IR but leverages your previous experience to potentially reduce training hours
• Basic Instrument Rating (BIR): Replaces the En-Route IR (EIR) in late 2021, offering limited capabilities compared to the Full IR but accessible for amateur pilots
• Instrument Rating (Restricted) (IR(R)) Available in the UK, it allows approaches unlike the BIR but is restricted to UK airspace and licences.

Helicopter pilots have a single option: the Full IR (HEIR)

Your ideal IR depends on your aspirations and preferred aircraft type. For amateur pilots with no plans for high-performance or multi-engine flying, the BIR or IR(R) might suffice. If you aim for a multi-crew, multi-engine commercial career, the Full IR or CB-IR is essential. Consider these factors:

• Professional goals: Aiming for commercial aviation? Full IR or CB-IR are your gateways.
• Aircraft preference: Do you see yourself solely in single-engine aircraft, or do multi-engine options entice you?
• Budget and time: Different IRs require varying training durations and costs.

Training Essentials

Each IR comes with specific theory exams and flight training requirements. While minimum hours exist for some, others are proficiency-based, focusing on achieving competency regardless of time spent. Flight Simulators (FSTDs) can also replace some aircraft training hours in most cases.

Planning Your Journey

The article delves into a suggested training plan for aspiring commercial pilots, incorporating options like the BIR/IR(R) and CB-IR within a modular CPL(A) program. However, the ideal path is unique to your goals and needs.

Remember:

• Consult the full article: It provides detailed information on each IR type and its specific requirements
• Seek expert guidance: Discuss your individual aspirations and goals with an Approved Training Organization (ATO) for tailored advice

Soaring Above the Clouds

With the right instrument rating, you can unlock a whole new world of flying experiences. This article equips you with the knowledge to navigate the IR landscape and choose the best path for your piloting ambitions. Remember, safe and confident flight in any weather condition awaits those who embrace the power of instrument flying.

Get in Touch!

If you'd like to find out more about our UK and EASA combined services why not email us today? We look forward to hearing from you!