IR(A)/SE

Modular Instrument Rating training

The EASA Instrument Rating (Modular) – Single Engine is a qualification that allows a pilot to operate single-engine aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) within EASA member states and other ICAO-compliant regions. 

Completing your Instrument Rating training in single-engine aeroplane is the most cost-effective way how to learn to fly the instrument flying. On the other hand it brings some limitations (mainly the weather-based limitations in the off-season) and necessity to extend the instrument rating privileges to the multi-engine aeroplanes at the later stage of the Frozen ATPL path.

The “modular” format means the training is completed as a stand-alone flight training course after obtaining a flight crew licence, such as a PPL(A) or CPL(A), rather than as part of an integrated program. Training covers instrument flight procedures, en-route navigation, and approaches in a single-engine aircraft to be able to navigate an aircraft under the Instrument Flight Rules. 

Privileges & Benefits

Holders of the EASA IR (SE) can fly IFR in single-engine aircraft across EASA airspace, conduct instrument approaches such as ILS, VOR, and RNAV, and operate in a wide range of weather conditions under IFR, including PBN operations, with a minimum decision height of no less than 200 feet (60 m) and minimum runway visual range (RVR) of 550m. . The rating can later be upgraded to a multi-engine instrument rating with additional training. 

This rating permits flight solely by reference to instruments, enabling safe operation in low visibility, cloud, or controlled airspace where visual navigation is not possible.  All commercial flights are operated under IFR. There is simple reason behind. It does not matter which airport you are flying to nor the current weather conditions. If you are flying in accordance the Instrument Flying Rules, the procedures are almost the same. Your routine is the same in nice sunny weather as well as during the low visibility operations. 

Pre-Entry Requirements

To enrol, a pilot must typically hold at least a Private Pilot Licence with Night Rating, have completed a minimum of 50 hours cross-country flight as pilot-in-command, and pass the EASA instrument rating theoretical knowledge exams.

Licence

• PPL(A) or CPL(A)
• Night Rating

Medical

• EASA Class 1 or 
• Class 2 medical certificate with an audiogram.

Flight Experience

• Minimum 50 hours cross-country flight time as PIC.

Theoretical Knowledge

• Pass the EASA IR theoretical knowledge exams or
• have valid ATPL theory credit

Duration & Pacing

• Minimum instrument training time: 50 hours for SE IR (up to 40 hours can be in an FNPT II simulator).
• Part-time/modular pace: 3–4 weeks depending on weather, scheduling, and availability.

The biggest time factors are:

• Weather – poor conditions can delay real aircraft IFR training.
• Aircraft & instructor availability – busy seasons can stretch timelines.
• Your flexibility – the more days you’re available, the faster the course.

Flight Training Phases

• Phase 1 – Basic Instrument Flying
  • Aircraft control by sole reference to instruments
  • Attitude instrument flying
  • Straight & level, climbs, descents, turns
  • Unusual attitude recovery
• Phase 2 – Navigation & Radio Procedures
  • En-route IFR navigation
  • Use of VOR, NDB, DME, GPS, RNAV
  • Holding patterns
  • Position fixing
  • IFR departure and arrival procedures
• Phase 3 – Instrument Approaches
  • Non-precision approaches (VOR, NDB, LNAV)
  • Precision approaches (ILS, LPV)
  • Missed approach procedures
  • Circling to land (if required)
• Phase 4 – IFR Flight in Controlled Airspace
  • Route planning & execution under IFR
  • Communication with ATC
  • Handling in-flight diversions and weather
• Phase 5 – Skill Test Preparation
  • Complete IFR profiles from departure to arrival
  • Combine all instrument procedures in one flight
  • Mock skill tests in simulator and aircraft