Instrument Rating Requirements
The instrument rating is typically the next step in pilot training after the private license is achieved. It allows you to fly the aircraft using only the instruments in the cockpit. The instrument rating greatly expands your capability as a pilot allowing you to fly in low visibility and inside clouds. It will also greatly increase the precision of your flying skills.
Our C152 is also instrument certified, which is a unique feature to that type of aircraft. This makes it a VERY economical aircraft to train in.
Flight Time Requirements
40 hours of instrument time (either simulated or actual)
50 hours of cross country time (some of this can be done during your instrument training)
Ground School Requirements for Instrument Training
You must pass an FAA written test. We offer the books, supplies, and instruction needed to do so.
Instrument Rating Frequently Asked Questions?
Giving accurate quotes for instrument ratings can be difficult due to the many variables. There are multiple paths to take in getting this rating. For most people it takes about 45 hours of flying with an instructor to be able to pass the checkride.
Can I really fly inside clouds with an instrument rating?
Yes! An instrument rating allows you to fly a properly equipped airplane inside clouds starting shortly after takeoff until you are on your final approach for landing.
What are some things I will learn? What skills improve with an instrument rating?
An instrument rating will increase your skill and abilities in many areas. To name a few, navigation, aircraft control, ATC procedures, multi-tasking, and confidence as a pilot will all be strengthened. In addition, an instrument rating will teach you more about aircraft systems, weather, and the abilities your airplane has.
Will I get "actual" experience in IMC conditions with your instrument program?
Yes! If there are actual IMC (cloudy days) I encourage flight into those conditions assuming they are prudent and safe conditions to be flying in. There is nothing like the real thing for teaching and preparing someone to become an instrument rated pilot. Obtaining your instrument rating in the Midwest is a great way to really learn about actual IMC. Flight lessons that are conducted in actual conditions will be a great benefit and resource for you to draw upon after you become an instrument rated pilot flying on your own.
I need 50 hrs of cross-country time for my instrument rating. What is the best way to build that time?
We recommend you obtain at least 30 hours of cross country time flying solo, prior to beginning instrument training. The other 20 hours can be obtained during your flight training. This allows you to be most productive with your money by “killing two birds with one stone”.
Is an instrument rating a difficult license to obtain?
Yes. An instrument rating is well worth the investment it takes to obtain it however, it is definitely going to cost you time and money. Being a safe and properly trained instrument pilot involves a substantial amount of work when it comes to reading and studying the materials on the related topics. There is another written knowledge test, just like when you were working on your private license. The amount of material that is new in your learning process is comparable to the amount of material you learned while working on your private pilot license. An instrument rating is by no means easy, but it is an incredibly rewarding accomplishment that opens up your flying to truly amazing possibilities.
Instrument Rating Costs
The FAA minimum to obtain an instrument rating is 40 hours of instrument time. This can be simulated instrument flying (wearing a view limiting device) or actual instrument flying (in the clouds). It is hard to determine the exact costs due to a number of variables but the average is 45 hours of instrument flight time.
C152 Rental 45hours @ $79 per hour - - IIIII IIII$3,555
Flight Instruction 35 hours @ $40 per hour - - $1,400
Books/Supplies - - - - - I$300
Checkride - - - - - - Ii$250
Total - WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWL$5,505 |
