Our Basic Instrument Rating theory course is suitable for pilots that don’t have ambitions to fly commercially. It is applicable to fixed-wing (aeroplane) EASA licences only.
Bristol Groundschoool also has theory Instrument Rating course for approved and non-approved Instrument Rating (IR). If you are unsure which course you need, read our guide on explaining IR courses.
You can start your Basic IR theory training with Bristol Groundschool before your Private Pilot’s Licence has been issued, but you can only start the flight training for your Basic IR and be issued with the rating once your PPL licence has been issued.
Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) Theory with Bristol Groundschool
Through our distance learning courses, you are able to study at your own pace utilizing our state-of-the-art computer program, ATPdigital, which is divided into three modules with exams following each module.
Through interactive diagrams, animations, and explainers, ATPdigital guides you through your course in bitesize stages, concluding each stage with a progress test.
You can also prepare for your exams with the BGS Question Bank free for 12 months as part of our BIR course.
Learn from anywhere in the world, at your own pace.
Key features of our Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) course
ATPdigital: pioneering flight theory training software
Learning is more memorable when the course materials are engaging.
That’s why we pioneered a computer-based training system called ATPdigital: the first software of its kind in the industry.
It breaks your course into bitesize stages, guiding you through your studies with interactive diagrams, animations, and explainers.
Pass quizzes at the end of each section to progress with your studies. Watch your knowledge grow with a dashboard overview of your learning.
ATPdigital is available for Windows and Mac OS PCs and laptops. There’s also an iOS app available for iPad.
Once installed the software can also be used offline allowing you to study from any location with no internet connection.
ATPdigital also incorporates the same question bank as BGSonline, enabling you to carry out practice exams if you do not have access to the internet.
Free 12 Month Subscription to the BGS Question Bank
As a student studying with Bristol Groundschool, you will receive twelve months of access to BGS Question Bank: a regularly updated database of exam-style questions.
With instant answers and detailed explanations, it’s the perfect resource for testing your knowledge and preparing for your exams.
Filter questions by topic or revisit questions you’ve got wrong in the past to make your learning targeted and effective.
How are Instrument Rating theory courses structured?
You have a total of 6 sittings to pass all the exams and no more than 4 attempts at any one subject, you need to pass all exams within 18 months from the date of your first sitting.
Instrument Rating Subjects and Exams
BIR uses three exams to examine the seven subjects. Below you can find the breakdown of each BIR module and theory exam.
Module 1 contains:
- Aircraft General Knowledge – Instrumentation
- Meteorology
- Human Performance
Module 2 contains:
- Radio Navigation
- Flight Planning and Flight Monitoring
- Air Law
- Communications
Module 3 contains:
- Air Law
- Instrumentation
- Flight Planning
- Meteorology and Communications
| Exam | Time Allocation | Number of Questions | Subjects |
| BIR Module 1 | 1:20 | 40 | Instrumentation, Human Performance & Meteorology |
| BIR Module 2 | 1:30 | 41 | Air Law, Flight Planning, Meteorology & Radio Navigation |
| BIR Module 3 | 1:30 | 44 | Air Law, Instrumentation, Flight Planning, Meteorology & Communications |
When you have completed each module you may attempt the examinations at an EASA Examination Centre. You must register with your chosen authority once you are ready to book the exams, fees are payable at the time of booking.
EASA examine the BIR in a different way to other licenses and ratings. The exams are designed to coincide with the three flight training phases or modules. The theoretical exams need to be passed prior to taking the BIR practical skills test.
BIR Distance Learning Course Fees
To register for our BIR distance learning course, simply purchase online. You will have the option of paying for your course online by credit or debit card, by bank transfer, or with a card on the telephone.
Purchase our BIR Approved Course
Subscribe to the BGS Newsletter
Be the first to know about aviation training news by signing up for the BGS newsletter – updates sent straight to your inbox.
Training Resources, Tips and Blogs
Links to essential guides, tips and blogs all about pilot training.
Aviation Industry and Flight Training News
Packed with aviation news from across the world, including pilot training news stories that you’ll want to read.
Exclusive Content and BGS News
Updates about our courses and training materials plus offers you won’t want to miss.
