This training is delivered at an Aeros location of your choice.
The Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) is a flexible and modular approach to obtaining an Instrument Rating (IR), allowing pilots to fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) in controlled airspace and adverse weather conditions.
Designed for pilots progressing towards their Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), the CB-IR builds on prior instrument experience, reducing training hours by recognising previous flight time in real-world IFR conditions. Pilots will complete the CB-IR in a multi-engine aircraft (DA42 Twin Star), preparing them for professional flight operations.
Objectives
Gain full Instrument Rating (IR) privileges for multi-engine aircraft
Learn to operate in low visibility, cloud, and controlled airspace under IFR
Develop advanced radio navigation and instrument approach skills
Improve decision-making and workload management in high-pressure environments
Entry Requirements
Hold a UK CAA Private Pilot Licence (PPL) with a valid Multi-Engine Piston (MEP) Rating
Hold a Class 1 Medical Certificate (required for CPL)
Completed ATPL Theory exams
Logged a minimum of 50 hours cross-country flight time as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
Preferably hold an Instrument Rating (Restricted) (IR(R))
Training Breakdown
Flight Training (37 Hours Total: 17 Hours Aircraft & 20 Hours Simulator)
Aircraft Training (17 Hours in a Multi-Engine Aircraft - DA42)
IFR en-route flying and ATC procedures
Advanced navigation using VOR, NDB, and GPS
Holding patterns and instrument approach procedures
Engine failure drills and emergency IFR procedures
IFR departures, arrivals, and approach plate usage
Simulator Training (20 Hours in FNPT II/ALSIM)
Procedural IFR flying and airspace management
Full instrument approaches (ILS, VOR, GNSS, NDB)
Simulated emergency scenarios and low visibility operations
Flight planning and execution under IFR
Ground School & Theoretical Knowledge
The CB-IR does not require additional written exams if ATPL theory has already been passed. However, structured ground training covers:
IFR airspace and procedural clearances
Radio navigation and flight planning
Holding patterns and approach procedures
IFR regulations and ATC interactions
Examinations & Skill Test
Flight Test: Conducted by a UK CAA examiner in a multi-engine aircraft
Covers IFR en-route navigation, instrument approaches, and emergency handling
Typically lasts 2-3 hours
Privileges & Limitations
✅ Privileges:
Allows pilots to operate multi-engine aircraft under IFR in all airspace classes
Enables the use of instrument approaches at controlled airports
Required for commercial operations and airline entry
❌ Limitations:
The rating must be revalidated every 12 months
Only valid for multi-engine aircraft (single-engine IFR privileges require additional training)
Expected Timeline
Full-time students: 4-6 weeks
Part-time students: Flexible, based on scheduling
Progression to the Next Stage
After completing the CB-IR, students will proceed to the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), finalising their commercial training and preparing them for professional aviation careers.