Instrument Rating Restricted (IRr)
The Instrument Rating Restricted (or more commonly referred to as the IRr), is another of the more popular ratings which can be added to a PPL.
It trains pilots how to deal with adverse weather conditions, both in-flight and when coming into land, so is all the more important and practical considering the variable - and sometimes unpredictable - weather which we have here in the UK!
The Published privileges of an IRr are:
- To fly UK registered aeroplanes in UK airspace
- Flight in IMC outside of controlled airspace, (in Class G), and IFR flight in Class D or E controlled airspace with appropriate permission.
- Flight out of sight of surface with a minimum take-off and landing in 1800m visibility.
- Let Down and Approach procedures to published Decision Height or Minimum Descent Height and to undertake missed approach procedures.
Course Structure
- 15 hours, all of which is dual instruction, 10 of which must be flown with sole reference to the instruments.
- A minimum of 20 hours of theoretical knowledge training.
- Written examination of 25 multiple-choice questions covering the syllabus.
- Skills test.
Requirements
- Must have completed 25 hours flying post-PPL issue, which may include the training for the IRr.
- 10 hours as PIC on aeroplanes, of which 5 hours must be on cross-country flights.
- Hold a UK issued Flight Radiotelephony Operator's Licence (FRTOL).