What is IR (a)?

The Instrument Rating (IR) in aviation pertains to the certification that enables a pilot to operate an aircraft solely based on instrument readings within the cockpit, rather than relying on visual cues outside the aircraft.

To acquire an Instrument Rating, pilots are required to undergo comprehensive training that focuses on the following areas:

1. Flight by reference to instruments only: Pilots learn to orient themselves and navigate solely by referencing the instruments within the cockpit. This includes flying the aircraft without visual cues from the horizon or ground.
2. Instrument approaches: Pilots receive training to align themselves with a runway and execute landings using only the instruments, even in situations with limited visibility. They learn to precisely follow the flight path defined by instrument approach procedures.
3. Emergency procedures: Pilots are trained to identify and respond to various emergencies that may arise during instrument flight conditions, such as engine failure, electrical system failure, and instrument malfunctions.
4. Adverse weather conditions: Pilots acquire knowledge on planning and conducting flights in unfavourable weather conditions, including, turbulence, and thunderstorms. They learn strategies to avoid hazardous weather and safely navigatethrough it.

Upon completion of the training mandated by the UK-CAA and EASA, pilots must successfully pass both a knowledge exam and a practical flight testadministered by an FAA-designated pilot examiner to obtain their Instrument Rating.This rating grants pilots the authority to operate an aircraft in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) where they would otherwise be prohibited by law.

What’s included

• Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) provide that you can use the IR to fly during low visibility weather.
• Your EASA Private Pilot License – PPL(A) will be updated to reflect your IR/SE(A) certification after you have completed your Instrument Rating course.
• The Instrument Rating allows PPL(A) holders to fly under IFR in any weather condition by meeting the minimal IFR requirements. You can also extend the privileges to multi-engine piston aircraft after earning your Instrument Rating (A).

Course entry requirements

• To be at least 18 years old
• To be at least a Class 1 medical holder
• Be a PPL(A) holder with Night Rating (N.R)
• To have sufficient knowledge of mathematics & and physics
• Proficiency in the English Language
• To have at least 50 hours cross-country as pilot-in-command

Practical examination

Your practical examination will be done with an examiner and you will need to demonstrate your ability to:

• • Prepare your flight according to the regulations including weather, flight planning, and alternate, performances and you will beinterrogated by your examiner on all these points.
  • Operate the aeroplane within its limitations.
  • Complete all manoeuvres with smoothness and accuracy.
  • Exercise good judgment and airmanship.
  • Apply your aeronautical knowledge.
  • Maintain control of the airplane at all times.
  • Respect all regulations and limitations specific of IFR flights.