The Instrument Rating Instructor IRI(A) course is designed to qualify you as an instructor for instrument flight training. Our experienced instructors at Smart Aero Flight Academy will provide you with the knowledge and expertise you will be able to pass on to your students for years to come. IRI(A) training focuses primarily on deepening understanding of IFR procedures as described in the IFR Training Manual.

The main focus of the practical training is cockpit familiarisation with IR systems and procedures, as well as the standardisation of training methods.

To begin the IRI(A) course, there are two possible pathways.

The first, significantly shorter route is for candidates who already hold an FI(A) or IR(A) rating. This path is intended for those who already have instructional or instrument flying experience and wish to share their knowledge and skills with others. In this case, the course consists of 25 hours of theoretical instruction and 5 hours of practical training.

The second, longer route applies to candidates who do not yet hold an FI(A) rating. It is still possible to complete IRI(A) training without first obtaining an FI(A), and in this case the course comprises 50 hours of theoretical instruction and 10 hours of practical training.

Requirements for the IRI(A) course:

• minimum age of 18,
• CPL(A) or ATPL(A) licence with a valid IR(A) rating (required for the shorter pathway),
• at least 15 hours of flight time on the aircraft type or class used for training,
• a minimum of 800 hours of IFR flight time, including at least 400 hours in aeroplanes,
• for multi-engine operations, the candidate must hold a CRI(SP)ME instructor rating,
• FI(A) holders without restrictions must have at least 200 hours of IFR flight time, of which up to 50 hours may be completed on a simulator.

Why obtain the IRI(A) rating?

The primary motivation for undertaking the IRI(A) course is the desire to teach future pilots and share one's aviation knowledge and experience. It also deepens the instructor's own understanding of IFR operations, which brings tangible benefits to their own flying.

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