22 September 2011
It appears that news from EASA regarding proposals for flying in IMC is better than many expected. Its Noticed of Proposed Amendments (NPA) 2011-16 offers PPLs the chance to qualify for a full Instrument Rating comprising of a reduced theoretical knowledge syllabus, as well as the chance to gain an En-route Instrument Rating (EIR) which would require less training and would focus on the en-route part of the IFR flight. The document adds, ‘The rating will not only allow the holder to get used to the en-route IFR procedures and to cope with unforeseen deteriorating weather conditions, but will also be a module to be credited for the full IR using the new modular route proposed.’
The document continues, ‘The ‘competency-based’ modular IR will address the need for a more accessible route to obtaining the full IR for PPL holders as requested by stakeholders. Some key elements of this proposal are a significantly reduced theoretical knowledge (TK) syllabus focussing only on those items related to the PPL or Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and a different level of TK examinations. Moreover, the competency-based IR includes a pre-entry course assessment to evaluate prior instrument experience (e.g. as an EIR holder) as well as the option for flight training with an instrument instructor outside of an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) before commencing the final training course at an ATO.’
There’s also relatively good news for holders of an IMC, with the document stating, ‘Although the conversion of existing IMC ratings is not within the scope of this task, the Agency is aware that this issue is closely linked to it. This NPA provides several options for pilots with prior instrument experience to be credited towards the new ratings.’
The NPA further includes a cloud flying rating for glider pilot, which would allow holders to enter cloud taking into account the airspace structure and ATC procedures.
Comments on the NPA may be submitted to EASA within three months of its date of publication.
<a href=”http://easa.europa.eu/rulemaking/notices-of-proposed-amendment-NPA.php”>Click here for more</a>
