Flight Crew Licensing (FCL): building, validating and revalidating the IR(A)
This domain tests the Part-FCL rules that create the instrument rating, keep it valid, and the examiner system that makes skill tests comparable between candidates and across authorities. Questions concentrate on prerequisites, validity periods, knowledge credit and who is allowed to test you.
Where the IR(A) sits
- The IR(A) is a rating, not a licence: it is appended to a PPL(A), CPL(A) or ATPL(A), and its privilege is IFR flight in aeroplanes.
- Prerequisites include at least a PPL(A), a medical certificate appropriate to the privileges exercised, completion of an approved course at an ATO, and the seven IR theoretical knowledge examinations (Air Law, Instruments, Flight Planning and Monitoring, Human Performance, Meteorology, General Navigation, Radio Navigation).
- IR knowledge credit is valid 36 months from passing the last examination. ATPL credit is 60 months - a favourite distractor.
- The skill test is conducted to Appendix 9 by an authorised examiner.
Validity and revalidation
- The IR is valid one year.
- Revalidation requires a proficiency check with an examiner within the three months preceding expiry. A check flown earlier than that window does not extend the rating, however well it was flown.
- A lapsed IR needs a proficiency check (and, at the authority's discretion, refresher training). Logging IFR hours does not renew it by itself.
Examiners and standardisation
- Examiner certificates run for three years; holders must be standardised by the competent authority, appear on its list, hold the privileges they test, and submit the test report.
Worked example
An IR expires 31 October, so the revalidation window is 1 August to 31 October. A proficiency check on 10 September revalidates to 31 October the following year. A check on 15 July falls outside the window and does not extend the rating: the IR lapses on 31 October and a new check is required after expiry.
Traps that cost marks
Treating the IR as a standalone licence; using the 60-month ATPL knowledge credit; assuming an early proficiency check revalidates; assuming your own instructor may sign the skill test.