MEP/IR Renewal

[vasi9]

Hi Guys,
Am having to renew my MEP/IR and was wondering if anyone has any info on reasonably priced schools? I have to do it on the aircraft, and it has been a while since I last flew a MEP.
Are there any independent instructors/examiners out there who would do this sort of thing or will I have to go through an ATO?
I live in the South so that region would be more convenient, though I would consider all options.
Thanks in advance! :)

[justasmallfire]

From what i understand from new EASA regs you will have to go through ATO or at least an examiner connected to an ATO.Its worth spending a couple of hours in the sim first before jumping into the aircraft,it will save money in the long run.

[BillieBob]

You may revalidate without getting involved with an ATO but not renew. The ATO will determine what refresher training is required and will issue a certificate when it is completed. Without a valid certificate from an ATO, an examiner is not permitted to conduct the check.

Interestingly, nowhere in the regulations does it suggest that the ATO has to hold approval for IR training.

[steggers]

Hi,

I know a really good place in Redhill airport who do MEP/IR renewels. The sim is a seneca but very good for the job in hand. Both the instructor and examier are excellent and really make you feel relaxed.

PM me if you want their details, but it's worth a phone call to them if nothing else!!

[vasi9]

Thanks guys,
Billiebob.... I last renewed my IR in 2008. Does this mean I just have to revalidate it?

[BillieBob]

No, an instrument rating is only valid for 12 months so you will need to renew it. Since your rating has expired by more than a year, the recommended refresher training is at least 3 'training sessions'. There is no definition of a 'training session' - it is whatever the ATO decides to make it.

[vasi9]

Thanks Billiebob.
Steggers, got your PM and thanks for the info... For some reason was not able to PM you in reply.:)

[beerdrinker]

BB,

Thanks for the info regarding the IR Renewal / Revalidation. Does the same apply for a MEP Class Rating. ie only valid for 12 months and after 12 months a Renewal including "Training Sessions" is required.

Thanks

[BillieBob]

Yes, pretty much the same requirements exist in the case of expired class/type ratings.

If the period of expiry is less than 3 months there are no recommended minima for refresher training. However, you will still have to obtain a certificate from an ATO to confirm either that they determined that no training was required or that the required training has been completed.

[peterh337]

This stuff is catching a LOT of people...

Another nail in the coffin of the MEP route, unless you either want to be an airline pilot or own a twin.