No matter how much prior training or prior experience you may have, you still need to do a minimum of 10 hrs training for the CB-IR at an ATO. The exception is if you already hold an ICAO license with a validating medical and Instrument Rating from an ICAO country where you have 50 hours…
The CB IR is a full ICAO IR, and the skills test is same as the full IR skills test. Only the route used to obtain the IR differs. The CB-IR isn’t a rating, but more so a route to the rating. This is in sharp contrast to the normal commercial route to the IR…
The CBIR is unique in offering a route for experienced pilots with a past history of instrument flying to train for the full Instrument Rating (IR) in a way which reflects their experience. This is in sharp contrast to the normal commercial route to the IR via a modular or integrated course, where no prior…
You can also find a school approved to provide the Competency Based Modular Instrument Rating (Aeroplanes) theoretical knowledge in Standards Document 31. As of 2026, there are now only 2 schools that are said to provide the Theoretical Knowledge. They are Caledonian Advanced Pilot Training Limited and CATS. Bristol Groundschool (BGS) has reportedly stopped taking new…
From the limited research, there are plenty of places in Europe that do the CB-IR route and theoretical knowledge. After all this is an EASA rating, and not specific to the UK. I have only done my research being based in the UK. Other than a list of the ATOs; the requirements and practicalities are…
In fact this isn’t a question I can answer. Assuming your aircraft meets Standards Document 7, and you choose to fly in your own aircraft. It entirely depends on the ATO you choose, the aircraft you are flying and the cost per hour. This is something each individual must assess and calculate.
Yes, provided that it meets the requirements for aeroplanes and helicopters for use on CPL and IR Skills test in Standards Document 7 (AH). Read more about my experience.
During the Pre-ATO Phase (private training with an IRI) in 2021, private instruction with a qualified Instrument Rating Instructor (IRI) typically cost £40–£50 per hour. In 2026, you should budget for £50–£70 per hour (including VAT). However, the ATO Phase (Approved Training Organisation), when I completed my CB-IR at Stapleford Flight Centre, the rate was…
This is the ultimate answer. How much will the CB-IR cost? In 2021, my own Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) cost between £10,000 and £14,000. That was spread over roughly 18 months while I worked a full-time job, training when I could afford it and fitting sessions around my schedule. Today, in 2026, the cost has…
