Obtaining your Instrument Rating

To obtain an Instrument Rating (IR) from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), you require:

• Valid Pilot License:You must hold a valid Private Pilot License (PPL) or a higher pilot license (e.g., Commercial Pilot License - CPL). 

• Valid Aviation Medical Certificate:You need a valid Class 1 or 2 aviation medical certificate. 

• Night Rating:Have a valid Night Rating on your license. 

• General Radio License:Obtain a General Radio Operator's License. 

• English Proficiency:Demonstrate fluency in English (speak, read, write, and understand)

• Instrument Rating Theoretical Examination:Successfully pass the SACAA-prescribed theoretical knowledge examination for an Instrument Rating.

• Minimum 40 Hours of Instrument Flying:Complete a minimum of 40 hours of instrument flying, with a maximum of 20 hours in an approved Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD). 

• Cross-Country Time: Accumulate a minimum of 50 hours of cross-country flight time as Pilot-in-Command (PIC). 

• PIC Time: Accumulate a minimum of 100 hours of PIC time.

• Practical Flight Test: Pass a practical flight test with a SACAA-accredited Designated Flight Examiner (DFE).