Instrument Rating (Restricted) (IR(R)) in London

The Restricted Instrument Rating is crucial for pilots with at least a PPL in order for them to be able to operate an aircraft safely in adverse weather conditions.

If you hold a PPL and have logged at least 25 hours of flight time, you will be eligible to apply for the IR(R).

Out of the total 25 hours of flight time, 10 hours must be flown cross country as a Pilot in Command (PIC).

As an IR(R) holder, you are granted a wide range of privileges that enable you to operate UK-registered aircraft within UK airspace.

These include the ability to fly in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) outside of controlled airspace, as well as instrument flight rules (IFR) flights within Class D or E controlled airspace with proper authorisation.

Additionally, you can conduct flights out of visual range of the ground, provided that there is a minimum visibility of 1800m for take-off and landing.

Furthermore, you are authorised to execute let-down and approach procedures to published decision heights or minimum descent heights and to perform missed approach procedures.

Our course involves 15 hours of flight training with dual instruction.

Besides the normal manoeuvres, you will be instructed in the usage of VOR, ADF, and DME instrument approaches using VOR/DME or ILS and NDB aids.

The course is followed by a written exam and flight skills test.

Although it is a very short course, with most pilots requiring no more than a week or two, we welcome students to carry out the training as they need to.

We are very flexible and take into consideration each individual’s time and monetary commitments.

The IR(R) is valid for 25 months, after which you will be required to undergo revalidation.

All our flight training course, including the IR(R) course, takes place at our flight academy at London Elstree Aerodrome.

The aerodrome’s close proximity to the heart of London offers an unparalleled training experience, allowing students to admire the city’s stunning views from above while honing their flying abilities.

Not only is the London Elstree Aerodrome a perfect spot for flight training, but it also boasts convenient accessibility.

No matter how you choose to travel, whether by car, train, or tube, the aerodrome can be easily reached by London residents and those from surrounding areas within the M25.

Our flight academy takes pride in attracting students from various regions, and we are confident that the cutting-edge facilities and superior amenities of London Elstree Aerodrome will exceed your expectations.