Instrument Rating
EASA IR(A) and CB-IR(A) training at Bern-Belp Airport. Fly in cloud, rain, and low visibility across Europe — legally and safely.
What Is an Instrument Rating?
An Instrument Rating (IR(A)) authorises you to fly in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) — cloud, low visibility, and controlled airspace at altitude — using instruments alone. Without it, you are limited to Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) and must cancel or divert the moment weather deteriorates.
alpaviation offers two EASA-approved routes: the full IR(A) for unrestricted worldwide IFR operations, and the CB-IR(A) (Competency-Based IR(A)) — a modular, skills-first path with reduced hours for pilots who already hold instrument experience. Both result in the same privileges and the same 12-month validity.
IR(A) — Full Instrument Rating
150h theory · 50h practical
The ICAO-standard Instrument Rating. No geographic restriction — valid in all EASA member states and accepted worldwide. The highest-value qualification available after your PPL(A) or CPL(A).
Prerequisites
PPL(A) or CPL(A)
EASA Class 1 or Class 2 Medical
50 hours cross-country PIC
VFR radiotelephony endorsement
EASA Part-FCL FCL.610 compliant
Valid 12 months. Revalidation: Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) with an IR(A) examiner every 12 months.
CB-IR(A) — Competency-Based Instrument Rating
80h theory · 40h practical (min. 10h)
A modular, competency-driven path to the same IR(A) privileges. Training is tailored to your existing skill level — if you already hold instrument flight time, your practical hours can be reduced to a minimum of 10 hours.
Prerequisites
PPL(A) or CPL(A)
EASA Class 1 or Class 2 Medical
50 hours cross-country PIC
Prior instrument experience (hours credited)
EASA Part-FCL FCL.615 compliant
Valid 12 months. Same revalidation as full IR(A) — Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) every 12 months. Same privileges as IR(A).
IR(A) vs CB-IR(A) — Side by Side
Both routes deliver the same EASA IR(A) privileges. The difference is in entry requirements, hours, and cost.
Training Costs
Indicative pricing. Final cost depends on individual progress and hours flown.
Full IR(A)
MEP CHF 36,000 – 38,000 · SEP CHF 31,000 – 33,000
Includes theory course, minimum 50h instrument flight, simulator sessions, examiner fees.
CPL(A) holders receive a 10-hour reduction on practical hours. Additional flight hours are charged at standard rates.
CB-IR(A)
MEP CHF 29,000 – 32,000 · SEP CHF 24,000 – 27,000
Includes theory, practical training (hours depend on prior experience), simulator, examiner fees.
Pilots with significant instrument experience may qualify for the 10-hour minimum practical track, substantially reducing cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should I choose — IR(A) or CB-IR(A)?
If you have no prior instrument flight experience, the full IR(A) is the standard route. If you already log instrument time under VFR or hold prior IFR credits, the CB-IR(A) allows those hours to count — reducing both training time and cost. Our instructors assess your logbook and recommend the right path at your first consultation.
How long does Instrument Rating training take?
The full IR(A) typically takes 12 to 18 months when training part-time. The CB-IR(A) can be completed in 6 to 12 months depending on your existing instrument experience and training frequency.
Can I train for my IR(A) part-time while working?
Yes. Both the IR(A) and CB-IR(A) are available on a modular, part-time basis. Theory can be completed via evening sessions or distance learning. Flight training is scheduled around your availability including weekends.
What aircraft will I fly for IR(A) training?
Instrument training is conducted on our equipped single-engine aircraft with full IFR panels. Simulator sessions are conducted on the FNPT II / full-flight simulator, which counts toward your required instrument hours under EASA regulations.
Is the EASA IR(A) valid worldwide?
The EASA IR(A) is an ICAO-standard qualification and is accepted or convertible in the majority of countries worldwide. CB-IR(A) carries identical privileges to the full IR(A) within EASA states and is equally recognised internationally.
Ready to Fly Instruments?
Contact us to discuss your logbook, prerequisites, and which IR(A) route suits your goals.
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