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    National code: AVI50519

    Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating)

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    OverviewAbout this course

    Give your commercial pilot licence an upgrade and develop the skills you need to operate an aircraft. Take to the skies with confidence in various difficult conditions, carry out instrument approaches and departures as well as en route procedures.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learning outcomes

    Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:

    • Plan, manage and operate a flight under instrument flight rules

    • Conduct 2D, 3D, and GPS approaches

    • Perform instrumental arrivals, visual circling approaches and departure procedures

    Course outcomes

    Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.

    • A nationally recognised Diploma qualification

    • 50 total hours of flying which includes 40 instrument flight hours

    • Preparedness to meet CASA certification requirements for Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating endorsement

    SuitabilityIs this course right for you?

    Entry requirements

    This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol

    • Must attend a pre-screening interview to assess suitability and commitment

    • Be at least 18 years old by week 52 of the course so you can undertake the CPLA Flight Test

    • A current Class 1 Australian Flight Crew Medical through Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Aviation Medicine

    • A current Private Pilot Licence (PPL) or Commercial Pilots Licence (CPL)

    • Meet requirements for an Aviation Reference Number (ARN) and an Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC)

    • Must meet Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) levels of Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) 4 and above

    • That you are able to attend a pre-screening interview to assess your suitability and commitment

    Completion requirements

    During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:

    • At the beginning of the course, you will have a medical examination to ensure you are fit to fly. Throughout the course, you will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as an industry requirement.

    Entry recommendations

    To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:

    • Ability to interpret weather forecasts and briefings

    • Understanding and ability to apply NOTAMs and operational information

    • Ability to interpret and understand instrument approach charts

    • Ability to think ahead and strategically plan as weather changes in-flight

    • Ability to apply your strong foundational knowledge of math and physics

    TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.

    PathwaysFuture career and study options

    Career pathways

    Our graduates go onto roles like: pilot for a commercial airline, flying instructor, aerial application pilot, charter pilot and simulator instructor.

    Licensing

    This qualification prepares you for CASA testing to be certified as a commercial pilot and to gain your Part 61 Flight crew licence

    Study pathways

    Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:

    Previous study1 Course

    Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.

    Further study0 Courses

    Advance your skills to take your career to the next level

    The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) does not have any post-graduate courses.

    Related study0 Courses

    Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.

    The Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) does not have any related courses.

    Your experience counts

    At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.

    UnitsUnits taught in this course

    Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Diploma of Aviation (Instrument Rating) qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 14 units of competency, including 13 core and 1 speciality units.

    Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.

    Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.

    • Perform instrument arrival and standard arrival route proceduresAVIY0050

    • Navigate aircraft under instrument flight rulesAVIH0017

    • Operate and manage aircraft systemsAVIW0032

    • Conduct a 2D instrument approachAVIY0044

    • ... 4

    TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service

    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support

    • TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)

    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service

    • TAFE NSW Libraries

    • Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential

    • Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home

    • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    • Student associations – get social with our student community

    Study optionsFind a location to enrol