Instrument Rating (IR)
Instrument Rating Course
The Instrument Rating (IR) is an important step for pilots who wish to expand their skills and continue their aviation training.
The Asteraviation course combines theoretical preparation and practical training to guide students toward obtaining an Instrument Rating for single-engine aircraft (IR-SE).
The course in brief
200 hours
50 hours
PPL or CPL
IR-SE
What is an IR rating?
The IR (Instrument Rating) qualification allows a pilot to fly according to Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).
The training develops the skills necessary to conduct a flight by referring to onboard instruments and operating in accordance with the procedures established for IFR flight.
The rating can be added to a Private Pilot License PPL(A) or a Commercial Pilot License CPL(A).
What is an instrument rating used for?
An instrument rating can address two different needs.
For those wishing to pursue a career as a professional pilot, the IR represents an important milestone in the training path required to access subsequent professional qualifications.
For a private pilot, it offers the opportunity to expand their skills and gain specific training for operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).
The Asteraviation course initially leads to obtaining a rating for single-engine aircraft (IR-SE).
For students continuing on a professional career path, further training is subsequently provided to extend their Instrument Rating (IR) to multi-engine aircraft (IR-ME).
Requirements for the IR course
To enroll in the IR qualification course, you must possess:
Night Rating (NR), if you intend to exercise IR privileges at night
At least 50 hours of cross-country flight time as Pilot in Command (PIC)
How is the IR qualification course conducted?
The training program includes both a theoretical and a practical component, organized according to the student’s needs.
Theoretical training
Theoretical training
The theoretical component consists of 200 hours of training, which can be completed in a classroom setting or via a distance learning platform.
Students who already hold a Frozen ATPL are not required to attend the theoretical course or sit the associated theoretical examinations.
Practical training
Practical training
The practical component includes 25 hours of training with a flight instructor.
- 10 hours in a Piper PA28-151;
- 20 hours in a Piper PA28RT;
- 20 hours on an ALSIM ALX simulator.
Theoretical training
The theoretical component consists of 200 hours of training, which can be completed in a classroom setting or via a distance learning platform.
Students who already hold a Frozen ATPL are not required to attend the theoretical course or sit the associated theoretical examinations.
Practical training
The practical component includes 50 hours of training with an Instrument Rating Instructor, broken down as follows:
- 10 hours in a Piper PA28-151;
- 20 hours in a Piper PA28RT;
- 20 hours on an ALSIM ALX simulator.
IR-SE and IR-ME: what is the difference?
The IR-SE (Single Engine) is the instrument rating for single-engine aircraft, and it is the qualification obtained through this course.
For those wishing to pursue a career as a professional pilot, the multi-engine rating therefore represents one of the next steps in the training path.
IR or BIR: which path should you choose?
The choice depends on the licenses and ratings already held, the pilot’s objectives, and the privileges they intend to exercise.
Do you want to obtain an IR rating?
Request information about the IR course