Instrument Rating (IR)
RotorSky
Helicopter pilots are increasingly flying under conditions that only permit instrument-assisted flight. This requires basic instrument flight training and, if necessary, further training specific to a particular helicopter type, which is usually done as part of the type rating process.
Goals
The pilot is taught all the skills necessary to safely operate a helicopter even outside of visual flight rules (VFR). This involves using a variety of navigation aids (NDB, DME, VOR, ILS, GPS, etc.) to, for example, navigate safely, fly circuits, and execute complex approach and departure routes safely and efficiently using PBN (Performance Based Navigation).
Basics
Obtaining an instrument rating requires both theoretical knowledge and extensive training on simulators and helicopters. In addition to learning the physical properties of navigation aids, spatial reasoning is both required and developed – while simultaneously, the pilot must constantly monitor and, if necessary, correct the aircraft's condition. Careful planning facilitates anticipation and thus reduces the workload. A corresponding, valid type rating for helicopter training must be included in the pilot's license.
theory
The necessary theoretical knowledge can either be acquired during the ATPL theory training or, if this is not the case, through a CBT course requiring approximately 200 hours. Each subject is then assessed by an official test.
Practice
The practical training, consisting of 40 hours of simulator time, is divided as follows at RotorSky:
• approximately 15 hours FNPT III MCC
• approximately 25 hours FTD 3 H135 with glass cockpit
This is followed by 10 hours of practical experience on the helicopter to consolidate the learned skills. The final Assessment of Competence on the helicopter is equivalent to an exam and is essential for obtaining the pilot's license.
• 15 hours FNPT III MCC
• 25 hours FTD 3 H135 with glass cockpit
• 25 hours FTD 3 H135
• 25 hours FTD 3 H135 with glass cockpit
• 10 hours of practical experience on the helicopter itself are then used to reinforce the learned skills.