Instrument rating (restricted)

Instrument rating (restricted)

The Instrument Rating (Restricted) (previously known as the IMC rating) permits the pilot to fly in a wider range of weather conditions, such as cloud and poor visibility. It improves one's knowledge, experience and utility as a pilot. It is a great way of building one's skills and confidence, and is also likely to increase your cross country flying time given that it is often bright on the east coast and overcast in the west, or vice-versa.

If you hold an UK PPL you can apply for this limited form of Instrument Rating. This rating is not recognised outside the UK but is a lot simpler to obtain than the full IR.

Pre-course requirements

Hold at least a PPL. You must have completed at least 25 hours flying post-PPL including 10 hours cross country as pilot-in-command when qualifying for the rating.

Training

15 hours of instrument flying training

10 of which must be flown solely by reference to instruments

A multiple choice written exam which may be taken in-house

Qualification

The IR(R) is valid only in the UK and permits:

  • Flight in IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions) under IFR outside controlled airspace, (in Class G) and IFR flight in Class D or E controlled airspace with appropriate ATC clearance.
  • Flight out of sight of surface with a minimum take-off and landing visibility of 1500m.
  • Let-down and Approach Procedures to be flown to published Decision Height or Minimum Descent Height and to undertake missed approach procedures

We're always happy to discuss individual needs, so please feel free to give us a call on 07729 776206 or 07985 039718.