UK IMC Rating - (IMC/IR(R))

The UK Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) Rating, previously known as the IR(R),, increases your dispatch rate by enabling you to fly in poor weather. Imagine punching up through the cloud layer to cruise in the sunshine above, then flying an instrument approach at your destination. It’s much more comfortable and much less effort than scud running through bumpy turbulence below.

The IMC course will sharpen up your flying techniques, while also enhancing your VFR flights as you rigorously follow procedures, master the nuances of your avionics, and take full advantage of the capabilities of your Cirrus aircraft.

An IMC rating permits you to fly inside cloud by sole reference to instruments, anywhere in UK airspace that is outside Class A airspace. Minimum visibility and cloud base for take-off and landing are more restrictive than for a full Instrument Rating, but are sufficient on most days unless other weather conditions preclude safe flight. And if you have, or later acquire, a night rating, then you can fly IFR at night with no further tests.

All you need to start the course is a UK PPL licence with a current Class 2 medical. If you are not yet familiar with the Cirrus, we will introduce you through the standard Cirrus VFR transition training. There’s no minimum flight time requirement to start the course, although we’d normally recommend gaining some VFR experience first. The theory requirement involves around 20 hours of study, with just one theory exam to sit which we can administer on-site. We can also conduct your IMC flight skills test.

Why train for the IMC Rating at Echelon?

The Cirrus is an ideal modern aircraft for learning instrument flying, presenting a wide range of information to the pilot, increasing situational awareness and flight safety. Echelon Air won’t just teach you to pass the test – we’ll give you confidence to make full use of the capabilities of your aircraft. We incorporate the approved Cirrus IFR transition training course making full use of the high-quality Cirrus training material.

Our instructors are qualified to teach both the IMC and full Instrument Ratings and are highly experienced in their practical application around the UK. Our in-house IMC examiners allow us to provide a ‘one-stop shop’ for all your needs; combined with Echelon’s renowned personalised and tailored approach to learning, this creates an ideal environment for efficient training.

We will also teach you how to decide when not to fly, setting personal minima for weather, and ensuring you always have a plan B.

Next steps

An IMC Rating is valid for 25 months from the end of the month of your skill test, and can be revalidated or renewed for a further 25 months by either of our in-house IMC examiners. We recommend including IMC refresher training prior to your revalidation, and during your regular currency flights with instructors.

An IMC Rating gives you up to 15 hours of credit towards the 40 required for a full Instrument Rating. This sets you on the path for further progression to a full IR, which can be used internationally