Originally Posted by
Alex Whittingham
I think this only applies to ATOs approved out of theatre. For instance, a US-based ATO training for the EASA licence has to include famil flying and IR test in EASA airspace whereas an EASA-based ATO can conduct the test in non-EASA airspace if it wishes.
I've never dealt with an EASA authority that allows any initial IR to be conducted outside EASA airspace, regardless of where the ATO Is based. Logically, an EASA based ATO wouldn't need to go elsewhere.
For reference, regarding third countries:
ORA.ATO.150 Training in third countries
When the ATO is approved to provide training for the instrument rating (IR) in third countries:
(a) the training programme shall include acclimatisation flying in one of the Member States before the IR skill test is taken; and
(b) the IR skill test shall be taken in one of the Member States.
This is adopted in UK law with "member states" replaced by "UK".