With an instrument rating you may fly IFR, including in cloud and poor visibility. For PPL holders there are two routes: the CB-IR, which gives the same privileges as a standard IR, and the BIR, a simpler, fully competency-based rating. We are the only school in Sweden offering complete theory and flight training for the BIR, and we train for both.
The differences at a glance
| CB-IR | BIR | |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest decision height | 200 ft (60 m) | 400 ft (120 m) |
| Flight training | At least 40 hours block time | Approx. 30 hours, no minimum hours |
| Theory course | Approx. 10 weeks by distance learning | Same course as the CB-IR |
| Requirements before you start | PPL and 50 hours of cross-country flight as pilot in command | PPL |
| Where the flight training takes place | At least 10 hours at an ATO | Module 3 can be done outside an ATO |
| Renewal | Every year with a proficiency check (PC) | Every year with refresher training or a PC |
| Total cost with us | SEK 54,900–139,900 | SEK 34,900–110,100 |
For both, you also need English language proficiency of at least level 4 before the skill test and audiometry to class 1 standards. A night rating is required if you will use the rating at night.
Choose the BIR if
- you fly privately and want to be able to climb through cloud and fly more safely when the weather changes
- you want to get started with less training and at a lower cost
- you hold an IR that has been invalid for more than seven years. With a BIR you renew it without a new theory exam.
Choose the CB-IR if
- you want the same privileges as a standard IR, with lower minima
- you have the 50 hours of cross-country flight as pilot in command
- you are aiming for a career in aviation.
Can I start with the BIR and take the CB-IR later?
Yes. The theory course is the same. If you hold a BIR and at least 10 hours of instrument flight training at an ATO, your training can be credited towards the CB-IR, provided all CB-IR elements were included in your BIR training and assessed by the ATO. If you hold a BIR and at least 50 hours of IFR as pilot in command, your theoretical knowledge is assessed and you receive supplementary flight training before the skill test.
Where can I train?
Instrument training is available at all three bases: Trollhättan-Vänersborg, Stockholm Bromma and Malmö Sturup. You study the theory by distance learning, with lessons in person or via video link. See course dates for upcoming intakes.