Training for the Instrument Rating teaches you to fly by sole reference to the instruments allowing you to fly in inclement weather. Even if you never plan on flying “in the clouds,” it is highly recommended that you become instrument rated because it will greatly increase your skill, precision, and safety as a pilot. The instrument rating is a must for those who are pursing a career as a professional pilot.
Overview:
Enrollment Prerequisites:
Students enrolling in the Instrument Rating Course must hold a Private Pilot Certificate and at least a 3rd Class Medical.
Aircraft:
The Cessna 172 is normally used for instrument training. The Piper Arrow PA-28 RT201 may be used for an additional cost.
Ground Training at a glance:
- Operation of aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)
- IFR en route & instrument approach procedure charts
- Weather elements and reports related to instrument flight
- Ground and satellite based navigation
- Air traffic control communications for instrument flight
- Crew Resource Management (CRM)
- Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM)
- Federal Aviation Regulations related to instrument flight (FAR)
- Aero medical factors
Flight Training at a glance:
- Flight by sole reference to instruments
- Departure, en route, and approach navigation
- Emergency operations
- Air traffic control clearances
- Prevention of vertigo and visual illusions
- Familiarization and practice of instrument approaches and procedures
