Why Instrument Qualifications?

Many if not most people start their PPL course with the intention of going places in their aircraft. They gradually become aware that in most of Europe the weather imposes quite severe limitations on what is safely possible. They also come to realise that VFR flight planning can be extremely complex in order to safely deal with the requirements of airspace, national differences from SERA, and terrain. Although experienced pilots conduct long trips under VFR, sometimes safety margins are eroded unless pilots are willing to accept delays and diversions. No qualification will enable a pilot to cope with all weather conditions. This applies to commercial pilots in a multi crew aircraft flying highly capable jet transports just as it does to a PPL flying alone in a single engine piston aircraft.

Just what you can and cannot expect to achieve with a CBIR or an IR(R) will be considered in depth during flying training. For many the IR(R) will suit their personal circumstances and offer a considerable increase in the utility of their aircraft. Others may prefer to go straight for the CBIR.

There is another aspect of the CBIR which is less obvious but very real. It is a skill which can deliver immense personal satisfaction. It is perhaps analogous with many sports where there is a painful process of gaining some initial level of competence and then a serious of satisfying personal efforts to improve which for the best pilots is a process that they will carry on throughout their flying lives. Rate One Aviation can help you make the choices appropriate to your own circumstances.