What is the BIR qualification?
The Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) is a qualification valid in all EASA countries that allows General Aviation pilots to fly under IFR (Instrument Flight Rules).
The requirements for requesting it and the training are less demanding compared to a standard IR(A), both in terms of the theoretical course and practical training.
EASA created this qualification for pilots who, although not intending to pursue a professional pilot career, want to learn to operate in a professional environment by improving their knowledge and piloting skills.
The Course in Brief
It improves the safety of General Aviation pilots, enabling them to fly in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) with complete safety.
It allows to fly with SEP non-high-performance aircraft in IFR (including at night if you hold a night rating) and with multi-engine aircraft if you hold the MEP(A) rating.
- The theoretical part is significantly reduced, starting from a minimum of 70 hours.
- The practical part starts from a minimum of 25 hours of training conducted on an SEP aircraft and flight simulator.
- The BIR is entirely based on the skills already acquired by the pilot.
- The training hours are an assessment conducted by the flight school.
The are few limitations for those who want to operate a general aviation aircraft in IFR.
- It is a valid rating for Single Pilot aircraft and not High Performance.
- It is only valid within the EASA framework.
- The minimums are increased by 200ft during the instrument approach.
- Departures are possible with: a ceiling of at least 600ft and visibility of at least 1500m, and the forecasts for the destination airport and alternates must have a ceiling of at least 600ft and visibility of at least 1500m.
There are no limitations on visibility minimums en route compared to the standard IR.
- PPL(A) or CPL(A) license and valid Class Rating
- Class 1 or 2 medical certificate
- English communication proficiency rating
