The Instrument Rating (Restricted) (IR(R)), previously known as the IMC Rating, is an intermediate step between the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) and a full Instrument Rating (IR). It allows pilots to fly in poor weather conditions and in controlled airspace under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), significantly increasing operational flexibility and safety.
The IR(R) is particularly useful for private pilots operating in the UK, as it provides a level of instrument flying capability without the extensive requirements of a full IR. It is also a key step for students progressing towards the Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) as part of the Fastrack Programme.
Objectives
Develop fundamental instrument flying skills
Enable pilots to fly in marginal weather conditions (IMC)
Improve situational awareness and aircraft control without external visual references
Introduce instrument approach procedures for controlled airspace operations
Enhance confidence and decision-making in poor weather scenarios
Entry Requirements
Hold a UK CAA Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
Hold a Class 2 Medical Certificate (Class 1 recommended for those continuing to commercial training)
Logged a minimum of 25 post-PPL hours (typically completed during the PPL Consolidation phase)
Completed at least 10 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
Training Breakdown
Flight Training (15 Hours Total)
Basic Instrument Flying (5-7 Hours)
Full and limited panel flying (with and without attitude indicators)
Recovery from unusual attitudes and spatial disorientation training
Climbing, descending, and turning using instruments only
Radio Navigation (2-3 Hours)
Use of VOR, ADF, DME, and GPS for navigation
Tracking and intercepting navigation aids
Holding patterns and entry procedures
Instrument Approach Procedures (5-7 Hours)
Introduction to ILS, VOR, NDB, and GNSS approaches
Understanding approach plates and minimum descent altitudes
Precision and non-precision approaches
Simulated IFR Flights & Emergencies (2-3 Hours)
IFR departures and arrivals
Simulated failures (instrument malfunctions, loss of navigation aids)
Controlled airspace entry procedures
Ground School & Theoretical Knowledge
Students must pass one written exam covering:
Basic instrument flying principles
Meteorology and weather interpretation for IFR flight
Flight planning under IFR
ATC procedures for instrument flying
Instrument approach procedures and airspace classifications
Examinations & Skill Test
Written Exam: One IR(R) theory exam (75% pass mark required)
Flight Test: A skills test with an examiner, covering IFR navigation, instrument approaches, and simulated emergencies
Privileges & Limitations
✅ Privileges:
Allows pilots to operate in IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions) within UK airspace
Enables the use of instrument approach procedures at UK airports
Permits IFR operations outside controlled airspace
❌ Limitations:
Not valid outside the UK (some exceptions in Crown Dependencies)
Does not allow IFR flight in Class A airspace or above FL100
Cannot be used for commercial operations
Expected Timeline
Full-time students: Approximately 2-3 weeks
Part-time students: Flexible based on scheduling
Progression to the Next Stage
Completion of the IR(R) enhances safety and operational flexibility, preparing students for the next stages of the Fastrack Programme, including the Night Rating and Command Development.