The difference between CB-IR, IR, Complex, and High Performance
What are the differences and where can you find them in EASA regulations? Within European aviation regulations, the terms CB-IR, IR, complex aircraft, and high-performance aircraft are often used interchangeably. In practice, this leads to misunderstandings about authorizations, training requirements, and operational restrictions.
CB-IR versus IR: Under EASA Part-FCL, there is only one instrument rating for aircraft: the IR(A). The CB-IR (Competency Based Instrument Rating) is not a separate rating, but an alternative training pathway. Regardless of the pathway followed, the final result on the license is the same: IR(A).
The relevant CB-IR restriction: High Performance Aircraft
Although the rating is the same, when issuing an IR via the competency-based route, a restriction may be included:
“IR privileges not valid on High Performance Airplanes (HPA)”
This restriction means that the holder does have IFR privileges, but may not exercise them on single-pilot high-performance aircraft. The restriction can be removed later through additional training and a skill test or proficiency check on an SP-HPA.
What is a High Performance Aircraft (HPA)?
High Performance Aircraft is not a general definition in the Basic Regulation, nor is it a marketing term. Within EASA, HPA is defined in practice via the Class & Type Rating and License Endorsement List.
An HPA is typically:
- single-pilot certified
- but comparable in performance and systems to multi-pilot aircraft
Examples of SP-HPA include:
Daher TBM series – Pilatus PC-12 – Piper M500 and M600 – Cirrus Vision Jet – Citation Mustang – Phenom 100
High-performance aircraft: Derived from Part-FCL and the EASA type rating list, it determines the additional training and authorizations a pilot requires and is directly relevant to CB-IR restrictions.
Single-Pilot High-Performance Airplanes (SP-HPA)
These are the aircraft most relevant to CB-IR/IR restrictions.
• Turboprops
• Jets (single-pilot certified)
For example, a Pilatus PC-12 or TBM is high-performance, but not complex. A King Air 200 is complex, but not a single-pilot high-performance aircraft.
What is a Complex Aircraft?
An aircraft is considered a complex motor-powered aircraft if it meets at least one of the following criteria:
- a maximum take-off mass of more than 5,700 kg
- more than 19 passenger seats
- certified for at least two pilots
- powered by one or more turbojet engines
- powered by more than one turboprop engine
This definition is laid down in Regulation (EU) 2018/1139, Article 3 (Definitions).
What does “complex” NOT mean?
- High Performance Aircraft (HPA)
- “Fast” or “difficult” aircraft
- Retractable gear / variable pitch prop (old FAA term!)
See also Part FCL 600 et seq. 725A