Instrument Meteorological Conditions Rating/Restricted Instrument RatinG
Prepared. Proficient. Flying in IMC.
IMC / IR(R) Rating
The Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) Rating, known as the IR(R) (Restricted Instrument Rating), is designed for PPL(A) holders who want to operate safely in reduced visibility and challenging weather conditions. The must hold a minimum of a Class 2 Medical and have completed a minimum of 10 hours solo time since completing their PPL. This rating provides the skills and privileges to fly under instrument flight conditions within UK airspace, offering greater flexibility, confidence, and safety in your flying.
Why Complete an IMC / IR(R) Rating?
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Fly safely class C-G airspace in the UK under IFR
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Gain practical instrument flying skills to manage weather and unexpected conditions
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Improve your decision-making, confidence, and overall safety as a pilot
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A stepping stone towards a full Instrument Rating (IR) or a CPL
Course Overview
Total Duration:
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15 Hours dual flight training (at least 10 hours flown by sole reference to instruments)
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6 Hours of Ground school with Instructor
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IR(R) Theory Exam (multiple choice)
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IR(R) Skills test.
What’s Included in our IR(R) Package?*:
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15 Hours Cessna 182 Hire
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15 Hours IR(R) Instruction
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6 Hours Ground Instruction
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IR(R) Theory Exam
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IR(R) Skills test (aircraft hire & test fee)
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Refreshments throughout the course
* Landing Fees & Nav fees are chargeable as per our price list
Additional training charged on hourly basis.
£5320
Flight Training
The IMC / IR(R) Rating requires a minimum of 15 hours flight training, including:
1. Basic Instrument Flying
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Aircraft control using sole reference to instruments.
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Attitude, power, and trim techniques.
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Unusual attitude recovery.
2. Radio Navigation
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Use of VOR, NDB, ILS, and GPS equipment.
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Tracking, holds, and intercepting courses.
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Navigation in reduced visibility.
3. Instrument Approaches
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Training in precision and non-precision approaches.
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Descent profiles, decision heights, and missed approach procedures.
4. En-Route Procedures
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Controlled airspace entry under IFR.
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Holding patterns and radio communications.
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Diversion procedures in IMC.
5. Emergency Scenarios
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Handling equipment malfunctions.
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Partial panel flying.
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Simulated system failures.
Ground training accompanies the flying syllabus to give a strong foundation in operating safely under instrument conditions. Subjects include:
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Instrument flying principles – attitude instrument flying, instrument scan, and interpretation.
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Rules of the air under IFR and in IMC – airspace requirements, separation, and privileges.
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Approach procedures – use of precision and non-precision instrument approaches.
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Navigation and radio aids – VOR, NDB, ILS, GPS, and their application in instrument flying.
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Human factors – sensory illusions, disorientation, and pilot workload management.
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Weather – meteorological conditions leading to IMC and their operational impact.
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Emergency procedures – equipment failures, partial panel flying, and diversions.
Theoretical Examination
The IMC / IR(R) Rating requires a short multiple-choice theoretical knowledge exam, usually administered by the training organisation. The exam tests understanding of the above subjects and must be passed before the rating can be issued.
