Instrument Rating

EASA CB-IR(A) theory course

The instrument flight rating is one of the more difficult yet rewarding ratings you'll pursue during your flight training.

The theory course consists of 91 hours of studying. Of these, 19 hours are performed in the classroom and the remainder is distance learning.

Upcoming ground school dates: TBA

By publishing the CB-IR (Competency Based Instrument Rating) EASA finally made the instrument rating easier to achieve for the General Aviation Segment. EASAs motivation for doing this was clear:

Easier access for GA pilots to Instrument Flying Rules (IFR) flying is considered a high-priority measure that will improve the safety and utility of GA flying.

Additional reading about the rating:

CB-IR or BIR? By Erlend Våge

EASA CB-IR By Patrick Lienhart

Course fee

€2090,-

What's included in the course fee?

Groundschool course: 19 hours in Oslo, Norway

Web-based distance learning course (18 months access)
Textbooks:
- CB-IR Series by Erlend Våge
- Jeppesen Student Manual (GSPRM)
- Instrument Flight Procedures PANS-OPS
An instructor monitors your progress closely
Assistance with registration for EASA exams

Course structure

Theory course

The theory course is primarily a distance learning course on itslearning (online portal) followed by a 19 hours classroom course in Oslo. There are seven subjects covered:

Air law
Instrumentation
Flight planning and monitoring
Human performance
Meteorology
Radio navigation
Communications

Flight training

Flexible and modular program

The advantage of the CB-IR route in flight training is that it can be done around your personal, operational and financial priorities.

Oslo Flight Academy offers CB-IR for both SE and ME.

With Oslo Flight Academy you can choose whether to:

Fly 30 hours with your local flying club, and the remaining 10 hours (minimum) at the OFA
Fly the full program at OFA

About the rating

IR(A)

Both the EASA IR and EASA CB-IR training courses lead to the exact same rating, privileges (and licence entry). That means you are approved for IFR (including PBN) operations with approach minima as low as 200 fot AGL and RVR 800 meter for single pilot operations (550 meter with approved autopilot). However, if you wish to operate high performance aircraft (HPA) you will need to undertake a separate HPA-course.

Prerequisites for CB-IR course:

PPL(A) or CPL(A)

the privileges to fly at night in accordance with FCL.810, if the IR privileges will be used at night

Prior to skill-test: at least 50 hours of cross-country flight time as PIC in aeroplanes, TMGs, helicopters or airships, of which at least 10 shall be in the relevant aircraft category

FAQ

Is the course in Norwegian?

The CB-IR(A) course and all associated material is in English

Is the classroom instruction a "must"?

Yes, according to EASA regulations, a certain portion of the CB-IR course has to be conducted by an instructor in a classroom. Due to Covid-19 there are ways of conducting some of this instruction as Virtual Classroom (MS Teams). The amount granted by the authorities are changing, but as of now a certain amount has to be physically in the classroom.

Do I have to take the EASA exams in Norway?

No, you can sit the exams in any EASA member state

Can you provide classroom instruction outside of Norway?

Absolutely, depending on demand we are able to accommodate group of students in other parts of Europe. Contact us for more information.

Do I need to have my PPL before signing up for the course?

Yes, a PPL(A) or CPL(A) is a prerequisite for beginning the course. However, you do not need the 50 hours of cross-country until you sign up for your skill-test.