Category: Academy

Academy

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 4

In the following I would like to publish my diary that I kept during my Competency-Based IR training. Part 4.

22 February 2025

Academy

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 3

In the following I would like to publish my diary that I kept during my Competency-Based IR training. Part 3.

22 February 2025

Academy

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 2

In the following I would like to publish my diary that I kept during my Competency-Based IR training. Part 2.

22 February 2025

Academy

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 1

In the following I would like to publish my diary that I kept during my Competency-Based IR training.

3 March 2025

Academy

Overview of the practical training and examination for IR authorisations

The practical training and examination are central components of obtaining an instrument rating (IR). They ensure that pilots have the necessary skills to operate safely and efficiently under instrument flight rules (IFR). In this article, we provide an overview of the practical training for the three types of IR (BIR, CB-IR, classic IR), the practical examination procedure and tips for preparation.

5 January 2025

Academy

Overview of the theoretical examination for IR authorisations

The theoretical examination is an essential part of obtaining an instrument rating (IR). It ensures that pilots have the necessary knowledge to operate safely and efficiently under instrument flight rules (IFR). In this article, we provide an overview of the theoretical examinations for the three types of IR (BIR, CB-IR, IR), the procedure and helpful tips for preparation.

25 April 2025

Academy

The subject of IFR communication within the framework of the instrument rating (IR)

The subject IFR communication provides the knowledge and skills required to ensure clear, precise and compliant communication in instrument flight operations. Radio communication is the backbone of co-operation between air and ground radio stations and contributes significantly to the safety and efficiency of air traffic. This article provides an overview of the content of the subject.

5 January 2025

Academy

The subject of radio navigation as part of the Instrument Rating (IR)

The subject of radio navigation provides the knowledge required to use radio navigation aids effectively and to navigate safely through controlled and uncontrolled airspace. Radio navigation covers a wide range of technologies and concepts, from classic ground radio stations to modern satellite navigation systems. This article provides an overview of the content of this subject. It is important to emphasise that this is only part of the content covered in the theory training.

5 January 2025

Academy

The subject of meteorology within the framework of the Instrument Rating (IR)

Meteorology is one of the central subjects in the theoretical training for Instrument Rating (IR). It provides the necessary knowledge to analyse and evaluate weather conditions and anticipate their effects on the flight. This knowledge is crucial for the safety and efficiency of flights, especially in instrument flight operations.

5 January 2025

Academy

The subject of human performance in the context of the Instrument Rating (IR)

Human factors deals with the psychological, physiological and social factors that influence the behaviour and performance of pilots. The aim of this subject is to provide pilots with an in-depth understanding of human strengths and weaknesses in order to minimise risks and maximise safety in flight operations. It is important to emphasise that the content presented here is only exemplary. A full discussion takes place as part of the theoretical training.

5 January 2025

Academy

Flight planning and monitoring as part of the Instrument Rating (IR) programme

The subject of flight planning and monitoring provides the basic knowledge and techniques that pilots need to plan and carry out flights safely, efficiently and in accordance with regulations. This subject covers numerous aspects, including the planning of VFR and IFR flights and in-flight monitoring. Some of the key topics are presented below as examples. Full and detailed coverage is provided as part of the theory training.

5 January 2025

Academy

The subject Aircraft Science within the framework of the Instrument Rating (IR)

Aeronautical science is an essential subject in the theoretical training for obtaining an instrument rating (IR). It deals with the technical principles and functionalities of the systems and instruments required for the safe operation of an aircraft. A thorough understanding of these topics is crucial for pilots to be able to interpret aircraft technology correctly and react appropriately in any situation. This article provides an overview of the core content of the subject of aeronautical engineering.

5 January 2025

Academy

The subject of aviation law within the framework of the Instrument Rating (IR)

The subject of aviation law is one of the central topics in the theoretical training for obtaining an instrument rating (IR). It teaches the legal and regulatory principles required to conduct flights safely, efficiently and in accordance with national and international laws. The essential content of this subject is presented in detail below in order to illustrate the breadth and depth of the topic.

5 January 2025

Academy

Overview of the theory

The Instrument Rating (IR) comprises intensive theoretical training, which is essential to prepare pilots for the challenges of instrument flying. Regardless of whether it is the classic IR, the Competency-Based IR (CB-IR) or the Basic Instrument Rating (BIR), the theory subjects cover key aspects of aviation. In this article, we provide an overview of the required theory subjects and describe the content of the individual subject areas.

5 January 2025

Academy

The classic rating instrument (IR) - introduction and overview

The Instrument Rating (IR) is the most comprehensive authorisation for instrument flight. It allows pilots to carry out flights under IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) conditions, which is particularly important in poor visibility or complex airspace conditions.

5 January 2025

Academy

Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) - Introduction and overview

The Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) is an extension introduced almost 10 years ago that was created to make access to instrument flying a little easier for pilots compared to the classic IR. It is designed to offer pilots a competency-based approach to obtaining a fully-fledged IR that is tailored to their individual needs and experience.

5 January 2025

Academy

Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) - Introduction and overview

The Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) is a modern and flexible rating developed specifically for general aviation. It offers pilots the opportunity to acquire basic IFR skills without having to fulfil the comprehensive requirements of a full instrument rating (IR).

5 January 2025

Academy

Rating instrument - introduction and overview

The Instrument Rating (IR) is an essential extension of the pilot licence and enables pilots to operate aircraft under instrument flight rules (IFR). This is particularly important for flights in poor visibility or in more complex airspace. You then fly according to the same procedures as the large airliners and are flying in a very professional environment.

5 January 2025

Academy

The Drehmeier / Navigation calculator

In this article, we go into detail about the structure and use of the rotary encoder and explain applications such as converting units or calculating ground speed and true heading. We show you how to get the best out of this device and illustrate its use with practical examples.

5 January 2025

Academy

Flying over water

Flying near the coast or over the sea offers breathtaking views and special challenges. From the endless sandy beaches of the North Sea and Baltic Sea to the jagged cliffs of the Mediterranean and Atlantic - the combination of land and sea makes coastal flying a unique experience. At the same time, the special geography and climate of coastal areas also entail risks that pilots need to be aware of and take into account.

12 March 2025

Academy

Flying in mountains

Flying in the mountains is one of the most demanding disciplines in general aviation. It challenges pilots both physically and mentally and requires a deep understanding of the special features of this environment. You can't just fly straight from A to B, you have to take the terrain into account. Emergency situations in particular have to be assessed differently, as it can be difficult to find suitable terrain for landing in case of doubt.

12 March 2025

Academy

Submitting a flight plan correctly - A comprehensive guide

A flight plan is an essential instrument in aviation that ensures both the safety and efficiency of flights. It is used to inform air traffic control (ATC) about the planned flight route, flight time and other relevant details. This ensures emergency rescues, coordinated flight movements and a smooth flow of air traffic.

24 April 2025

Academy

Slot allocation at airports requiring coordination

The efficient utilisation of limited capacities at German airports requires careful planning and coordination of flight movements. For flights under instrument flight rules (IFR), the allocation of slots is essential. This article provides pilots with a comprehensive overview of the slot allocation process for IFR flights in Germany, including the legal framework, institutions involved and practical advice on how to apply for slots.

16 April 2025

Academy

Radiotelephony procedures for private pilots: Practical examples

Practical examples of typical communications are given here. We divide these into VFR and IFR communications. The VFR communication is in German and English, the IFR communication only in English, as German is not usually used here.

9 November 2024

Academy

Radiotelephony procedures for private pilots: ATS radiotelephony groups

The radiotelephony groups described are taken from the official DFS NFL. They are organised according to application areas, although all radiotelephony groups can of course also be used in other situations wherever they make sense

9 November 2024

Academy

Radiotelephony procedures for private pilots

Radio communication is an indispensable part of aviation, as it regulates communication between pilots and air traffic controllers and makes a decisive contribution to flight safety. It is important for private pilots to know the basic principles and rules of aeronautical radio and to use them correctly. This article provides a detailed explanation of the most important aspects of radiotelephony for private pilots and highlights the official requirements according to the Single European Sky Regulations (SERA) and German air traffic control (DFS).

9 November 2024

Academy

LAPL / PPL - Practical training - Valuable tips

The practical training for the LAPL or PPL for aeroplanes is the core of pilot training alongside the theory. We provide links to good videos and articles.

27 April 2024

Academy

LAPL / PPL - Practice and practical exam

The practical training for the LAPL or PPL for aeroplanes is the core of the pilot training alongside the theory. It concludes with a practical examination. In this article, we provide an overview of the practical training process and the content of the final examination.

19 April 2024

Academy

LAPL / PPL - Theory test procedure

The theoretical training for the LAPL or PPL for aeroplanes concludes with a theory test. In this article, we provide an overview of how the exam works and what the content is. In particular, we emphasise information on how to best prepare for the exam and which learning platforms can be recommended to successfully pass the exam!

25 April 2025

Academy

LAPL / PPL - Navigation

The "Navigation" theory chapter is about how pilots can navigate safely from A to B. Firstly, the earth, the coordinate system and the basics relevant to aviation are explained. Then the various aeronautical charts and their use are described. Building on this, we will discuss how to navigate as a pilot, initially focussing on terrestrial navigation, before moving on to the topic of radio navigation.

10 April 2024

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 4

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 3

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 2

My practical training as a Competency-Based IR - Diary Part 1

Overview of the practical training and examination for IR authorisations

Overview of the theoretical examination for IR authorisations

The subject of IFR communication within the framework of the instrument rating (IR)

The subject of radio navigation as part of the Instrument Rating (IR)

The subject of meteorology within the framework of the Instrument Rating (IR)

The subject of human performance in the context of the Instrument Rating (IR)

Flight planning and monitoring as part of the Instrument Rating (IR) programme

The subject Aircraft Science within the framework of the Instrument Rating (IR)

The subject of aviation law within the framework of the Instrument Rating (IR)

Overview of the theory

The classic rating instrument (IR) - introduction and overview

Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) - Introduction and overview

Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) - Introduction and overview

Rating instrument - introduction and overview

The Drehmeier / Navigation calculator

Flying over water

Flying in mountains

Submitting a flight plan correctly - A comprehensive guide

Slot allocation at airports requiring coordination

Radiotelephony procedures for private pilots: Practical examples

Radiotelephony procedures for private pilots: ATS radiotelephony groups

Radiotelephony procedures for private pilots

LAPL / PPL - Practical training - Valuable tips

LAPL / PPL - Practice and practical exam

LAPL / PPL - Theory test procedure

LAPL / PPL - Navigation

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