Instrument Rating – Aeroplanes (IR)

Both Private and Commercial Pilot Licenses are only valid for Visual Flight Rules (VFR).

In case of bad visibility or even overseas flying without visual landmarks that can be spotted, a Private or Commercial Pilot License will not be sufficient, therefore, the need for an Instrument Flight Rating (IR) becomes necessary. This rating will allow the pilot to fly in bad or low visual conditions, with sole reference to his cockpit panel instruments. The pilot will be able to safely manoeuvre his aircraft and follow accurate navigation itineraries through clouds, haze, fog, smog, mist and other low visibility conditions, without ever experiencing the necessity to see the ground.

General requirements for an Instrument Rating:

• Age – An applicant shall be a minimum of eighteen years of age.
• Medical Fitness – An applicant shall hold a valid Class 1 or Class 2 with the hearing requirements for the issue of a Class 1 Aviation Medical Certificate.
• Certificates – An applicant shall hold at least a current Private Pilot License.