Aviation glossary

What is IR(R)?

Instrument Rating (Restricted)

The IR(R), formerly the IMC rating, is a UK rating that lets a PPL holder fly in instrument conditions within UK airspace, with defined privileges and limitations.

The Instrument Rating (Restricted), or IR(R), is a UK national rating that grew out of the long-standing IMC rating. It allows the holder to fly in IMC and to use let-down procedures in UK airspace, within limits that are more restrictive than a full Instrument Rating (for example, higher approach minima).

It is a popular add-on for UK private pilots who want more weather capability without completing a full IR.

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Related terms

IFRIFR (Instrument Flight Rules) is flying by reference to the aircraft's instruments, used in poor weather or by choice, under a defined set of rules.IMCIMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions) is weather below the visual minima, where flight must be by reference to instruments.PPLA PPL (Private Pilot Licence) allows you to fly as pilot-in-command for leisure and private purposes, but not for payment.

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