2021 Competency Based Instrument Rating

July 13, 2021

The ATPL(A) theory syllabus had an update last year, and now it’s the turn of the Competency Based Instrument Rating syllabus (CBIR). So, we’re delighted to announce a new, fully updated book series for the 2021 EASA CBIR syllabus, complete with extra features and new content.

This new series is now available for ATOs for CBIR ground school instruction, and private pilots who are working towards a CBIR can also download them directly from Apple Books. As always, our interactive, digital manuals can be read on any Apple device and the books are fully compliant with the updated content and Learning Objectives from EASA’s new 2021 CBIR theoretical knowledge syllabus.

The EASA CBIR is a more practical approach to gaining an Instrument Rating and is designed for private pilots who want to learn to fly in instrument conditions, in any class of airspace, but who do not need to become commercially qualified. 

The CBIR is designed to take account of a pilot’s flying experience, with an emphasis on practical flying skills. However, there are still 7 theory exams that must be passed as part of the training: Air Law, Communications, Flight Planning, Human Performance, Instrumentation, Meteorology and Radio Navigation. 

Under the outgoing syllabus, the theoretical knowledge component of the CBIR was shared with the En-Route Instrument Rating (EIR) syllabus. But, from 8 September 2021, the EIR will be replaced with the new Basic Instrument Rating (BIR) which will have a different syllabus. The new Padpilot CBIR books, therefore, are only suitable for the 2021 CBIR, and not the EIR. With updated content, new LO (Learning Objective) Summary pages at the end of each chapter, Quick Quizzes for self testing and lots of animations and 3D models to bring the theory to life – these are the most advanced and up to date CBIR theory books. available. Download a free sample or the complete CBIR series from our bookstore. 

For ATOs: For information about Padpilot ground school solutions, please get in touch.

More blogs

ATPL(A) Book Bursary

ATPL(A) Book Bursary

Today, to celebrate World Pilots’ Day 2023, we’re announcing the launch of our first Book Bursary for aspiring commercial pilots.  We’re excited to be able to offer 5...

read more
New eReader platform for all devices

New eReader platform for all devices

Padpilot theory for all devices. Updated 25 July 2023Student pilots can now get our best-selling PPL(A), ATPL(A) and ATPL(H) theory content on any device – Apple, Android,...

read more

Padpilot helps me learn because of the range of media they use. The videos, pictures, 3D models and animations all make studying easier and more enjoyable.

S.L.

Student

When you are finding it hard to understand something like engines, the animations and videos are absolutely marvellous.

A.C.

Student

We really appreciate Padpilot books for ATPL(A) and ATPL(H) theory and have only positive feedback from our students. ATPL theory is really important for future professionals and Padpilot books are great supporting materials for students - not only for exams, but also for their future job.

O. Hajzler

CTKI, Czech Aviation FC

To be able to provide flight training that's as good as possible, you need the right theoretical material. It’s important to be always up to date in this industry, and so we're very happy to use training materials that are digital and updated regularly.

G. Salminen

Volflight

Love your books. They're improving big knowledge gaps I had, especially for Meteorology. And super nice job the way you designed the PoF book as well - it helps so much with understanding everything.

Michael Pace

Student

Products

Frequently asked questions

Contact us