The IMC rating qualifies you to fly IFR in class D to G airspace, together with making instrument approaches down to an absolute minimum of 500 feet. The course consists of 15 hours of dual instruction, a simple written exam and a flight test.

 

Instruction includes: 

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Instrument flying (full and limited panel)

 

Unusual attitude recoveries

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Instrument approaches (ILS, NDB, VOR, SRA, RNAV)

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Radio Navigation

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Validity is for 25 months and requires a test to revalidate.

 

Course entry requirements: 

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25 hours flying time since PPL issue of which

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10 hours must be PIC including 5 hours cross-country

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The IMC rating is recorded on your licence as an IR(R) – Instrument Rating (Restricted) – or if you maintain your CAA licence, it remains as an IMC. Please note that the rating cannot be added to a LAPL, it is also only recognised within UK airspace.