Instrument rating types comparison
IR / CBIR / BIR

The Instrument Rating IR (A) qualification allows the pilot to conduct flights under meteorological conditions where the visibility is so low that it is necessary to operate instrument flights at any stage of the flight.

The EASA standards currently distinguish 3 basic types of instrument rating courses for single-engine (SE) airplanes.

These courses differ not only in the length and method of training, but also in the scope of authorization that the pilot obtains. Below you can find a comparison table with the differences between the individual instrument rating courses. The table can help you to find out which course is the most suitable for you.

Instrument rating types comparison table

Name Instrument rating
IR(A)		 Competency based instrument rating
CBIR(A)		 Basic instrument rating
BIR(A)
Requirements 50 hours PIC on aircraft

ATPL, CPL or IR theory

 50 hours PIC on aircraft

ATPL, CPL or IR theory

 ATPL, CPL, IR, Basic IR theory
Duration Minimum 50 hours Minimum 40 hours Minimum 0 hours, recommended 35 hours
Credits from previous experience 10 hours from CPL 10 hours from CPL

Up to 30 hours from IFR PIC experience

Up to 30 hours from IR training with an instructor outside the ATO

 None
Limitations CAT I CAT I For departure visibility 1500 m and cloud ceiling 600 ft

For arrival visibility 1500 m and cloud ceiling 600 ft or DH/MDH + 200 ft

DH/MDH increased by 200 ft
Use Commercial pilot Commercial pilot Private pilot
Summary The traditional instrument rating as we know it The new equivalent of the traditional instrument rating. Shorter flight training and more crediting options. No limitations against conventional IR. Simplified instrument rating replacing the EIR. Aimed at private pilots who intend to fly under instrument condition. Simplified theory and shortened flight training.
Source: EASA STANDARD: PART FCL and BLUE SKY AVIATION

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