Instrument Rating (IR)

All Courses » Instrument Rating

Expand your skills beyond visual flying.

The Instrument Rating (IR) authorises pilots to operate aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), enabling flight in conditions where visual references are limited or unavailable, such as in cloud, fog, or at night. This rating is essential for pilots aiming to enhance safety, expand operational capabilities, or pursue professional aviation careers.

There are two primary types of instrument ratings:
• Single-Engine Command Instrument Rating (SECIR): For operations in single-engine aircraft
• Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR): For operations in multi-engine aircraft.
Both ratings require comprehensive training in instrument navigation, approach procedures, and adherence to IFR protocols

Your Aircraft

Choose from a diverse fleet of aircraft to complete your Recreational Pilot Licence.

Single Engine IFR

Our single-engine fleet includes a range of IFR-capable training aircraft, such as the Cessna 172, Piper Warrior, and Piper Arrow. These aircraft are ideal for building foundational instrument flying skills, with modern avionics and stable handling suited to both early and advanced IFR training.

Piper Seminole

A dependable twin-engine trainer, the Piper Seminole is a staple of multi-engine instrument training. With dual-engine redundancy, retractable undercarriage, and advanced avionics, it offers students valuable experience managing more complex systems and high-performance procedures.

Vulcanair Partenavia

The Partenavia P68C is a high-performance, twin-engine aircraft known for its reliability, visibility, and stability—making it a strong platform for advanced multi-engine IFR training, including commercial and charter preparation.

Flight Training Fees

At RVAC, we believe in clear and fair pricing. Your flight training investment includes not just aircraft time and instruction, but access to a rich learning environment and club community.

What’s included?

Flight training hours (31.5 hours dual, 18 hours simulator dual, 10 hours simulator solo)

Briefings and debriefings before and after each flight

Student support and guidance throughout your training

IREX Theory Course and Exam

Access to student resources and Library

MECIR Flight Test and Licence Issue

Pay as you Go

RVAC uses a pay-as-you-go model, so you only pay for the training you complete. This flexible structure allows you to manage your costs and progress at your own pace.

$32,703

Based on Piper Warrior and Piper Seminole. Training is competency-based, so the actual number of hours needed may vary depending on individual progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our PPL Training Program.

Still have questions?

What are the prerequisites for obtaining an IR?

To be eligible for an Instrument Rating, you must:
• Hold at least a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) or Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).
• Pass the Instrument Rating Examination (IREX).
• Complete the required flight training with an authorised instructor.
• Meet the minimum aeronautical experience requirements, including specific cross-country and instrument flight hours.

What is the difference between a Private Instrument Rating (PIR) and a full IR?

A Private Instrument Rating (PIR) is designed for private pilots who wish to fly under IFR conditions but do not intend to engage in commercial operations. It typically involves less training and has certain limitations compared to a full IR, which is comprehensive and required for commercial flying.

How long does it take to complete IR training?

The duration of IR training varies based on individual progress, scheduling, and whether you’re pursuing a single-engine or multi-engine rating. Full-time students may complete the training in several weeks, while part-time students may take longer.

What are the recency requirements for maintaining an IR?

To maintain the privileges of an IR, pilots must meet certain recent experience requirements, such as conducting a specified number of instrument approaches within the previous 90 days. Additionally, proficiency checks may be required periodically.

Is there any financial assistance available?

Eligible students can defer their tuition fees under the VET Student Loans Scheme when enrolled in a full-time Diploma of Aviation course. Read More

What comes after the IR?

The Instrument Rating (IR) significantly enhances your capability as a pilot, allowing you to fly in a wider range of weather conditions and environments under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). It’s a vital qualification for professional pilots and a major step toward airline or charter operations.
While the IR expands your flying privileges, you must continue to meet recency and proficiency requirements to maintain it—such as regular instrument approach practice and periodic proficiency checks.

After obtaining your Instrument Rating, many pilots continue progressing by undertaking advanced training, including:

Multi-Engine Class Rating (MEA)

Flight Instructor Rating (FIR)

ATPL Theory

Design Feature Endorsements (DFE)

480795002_1183564880441178_312333002216866844_n

Complete one of our accredited Diploma Courses.

The Diploma of Aviation is your pathway to a Multi Engine Class Rating / Instrument Rating
Complete the Instrument Rating as part of our next full-time Diploma course!
Eligible students may access financial support through the VET Student Loans program.

Begin your Aviation Journey

Ready to start? Fill in the form below and we’ll get back to you with information about how to begin your flight training with us.

The form has been submitted successfully!

There has been some error while submitting the form. Please verify all form fields again.

Or Chat with Us

Renew your Membership today for another year of excellent RVAC Membership benefits.

Instrument Rating (IR)

Expand your skills beyond visual flying.

Your Aircraft

Single Engine IFR

Piper Seminole

Vulcanair Partenavia

Flight Training Fees

$32,703

Frequently Asked Questions

What comes after the IR?

Complete one of our accredited Diploma Courses.

Begin your Aviation Journey

Call +61 3 8586 7777