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Instrument Pilot Rating

An instrument rating allows a pilot to operate an aircraft in conditions where visibility is limited, such as flying in clouds or adverse weather.

 

As per the FAA’s Instrument Flying Handbook, Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) are regulations established to govern flight when it's unsafe to rely on outside visual references. IFR flight involves using instruments in the flight deck for navigation, guided by electronic signals. When operating a flight in instrument conditions, a pilot must file an IFR flight plan. Unlike Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flights, where pilots rely on looking out the window, IFR flights depend on information provided by flight instruments. Only pilots with a valid and current instrument rating are authorized to file and conduct flights using an IFR flight plan.

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Why should you get an instrument pilot rating?

Undoubtedly, obtaining an instrument rating enhances the skills of any pilot. Instrument flight training not only deepens the understanding of concepts introduced in private pilot training but also incorporates specific knowledge related to instrument flying. Moreover, having an instrument rating removes limitations on flight opportunities, extending beyond clear weather days. Instrument-rated pilots can file an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) plan, allowing them to navigate through clouds and facilitating flights through challenging airspace with greater ease.

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What are the prerequisites?

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Hold a current private pilot certificate.

  • Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.

  • Receive ground training on the Aeronautical Knowledge (listed below) and pass the FAA knowledge test with a score of 70% or greater.

  • Meet the FAA’s minimum Experience Requirements listed below

  • Pass a practical test consisting of an oral exam and an in-flight exam with a FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)

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Aeronautical Knowledge:

  • Federal Aviation Regulations that apply to flight operations under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).

  • Appropriate information from the “Aeronautical Information Manual” that applies to flight operations under IFR.

  • Air traffic control system and procedures for instrument flight operations.

  • IFR navigation and approaches by use of navigation systems.

  • Use of IFR en-route and instrument approach procedure charts.

  • Procurement and use of aviation weather reports and forecasts and the elements of forecasting weather trends based on that information and personal observation of weather conditions.

  • Safe and efficient operation of aircraft under instrument flight rules and conditions.

  • Recognition of critical weather situations and windshear avoidance.

  • Aeronautical decision-making and judgment.

  • Cockpit resource management, including crew communication and coordination.

 

Flight Proficiency

  • Pre-flight preparation.

  • Pre-flight procedures.

  • Air traffic control clearances and procedures.

  • Flight by reference to instruments.

  • Navigation systems.

  • Instrument approach procedures.

  • Emergency operations.

  • Post-flight procedures.

 

Aeronautical Experience

  • 50 hours of cross country flight time as pilot in command, of which 10 hours must have been in an airplane.

  • 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time of which 15 hours are flight training from an instrument instructor. Instrument time includes:

    • 3 hours of instrument flight training within 2 calendar months before the practical test.

    • One cross country flight in an airplane with an authorized instructor, that is performed under IFR that involves a flight of 250 nautical miles.

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How much will it cost?

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Standard Costs NO MATTER what school you attend...

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Online Ground School​

$300.00

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Simulated Instruction

$1,400.00

(Based on 20 hours @ $70.00 per hour)

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SIM Instructor

$1,400.00

(Based on 20 hrs @ $70.00 per Hour)

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FAA Written Exam​

$175.00

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DPE Checkride Fee​​

$1,000.00

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​AV8R Unlimited's Specific Costs...

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Aircraft Rental

$120.00​​​​​​

(Fuel & Oil Included)

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Duel Flight Instruction

Hourly Rate to be determined between pilot and Independent Instructor

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* These prices are just an estimate. Actual costs will vary on an individual basis depending on different learning styles and the proficiency and preparation of the pilot.  FAA Examiner costs vary by location, your examiner will give you their cost when contacted for your exam.

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