The Instrument Rating

The instrument rating is one of the most challenging things that you can do in aviation and it definitely makes you a complete pilot. The ability to fly in the clouds and deal with changing weather conditions is a big confidence builder for most pilots and increases your ability to use a general aviation airplane. You will learn how to use the air traffic control system to your advantage and your overall flying skills will dramatically improve. Also, insurance companies will often lower insurance premiums for instrument rated pilots that own their own airplanes.

What do I need before I can start?

1) Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate
2) Hold a current FAA Medical Certificate
3) Pass the FAA written knowledge test as well as the FAA practical flight test

What do I have to do to earn an instrument rating?

Flight training consists of the following (some of which was completed during the Private Pilot training):

1) 50 hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command (Part 61)
2) 10 hours flight time in an airplane
3) 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight time including:
4) 15 hours of instrument training from an authorized instructor
5) Three hours of instruction from a CFII in preparation for the practical test