Instrument Rating-FAR 141


For most pilots, the Instrument Rating is the next step after getting their Private Pilot’s Certificate. An Instrument Rating expands the reach of your pilot’s certificate by enabling you to safely fly in less than "fair" weather, i.e. reduced visibility and low ceilings that keep other pilots on the ground.

Your instrument training will begin by teaching you to control the aircraft solely by reference to the flight instruments. As you gain experience and proficiency flying solely by reference to the flight instruments you will then begin to fly by use of numerous navigational aids such as airways and gps systems. The final stages of your training will teach you to perform precision approaches in instrument conditions. it is considered to be one of the most challenging and rewarding ratings in aviation.

Prerequisites:

  • Hold at least a private pilot certificate
  • Read, speak, write and understand english
  • Be a US citizen
  • If not a US citizen, have TSA clearance

Completion Requirements:

Log 30 hours of ground training and 35 hours of flight training that includes:

  • Meet the minimum time requirements: **141 App. C
  • Complete 30 hours of ground training
  • Log 35 hours of flight training with a Flight Instructor that includes:
  • One IFR cross-country flight consisting of a total distance of at least 250 NM with one leg consisting of 100 NM straight-line distance and involves an instrument approach at each airport and at least three different kinds of instrument approaches at each airport.
  • Completion of all the course and syllabus requirements
  • Completion of the required airman knowledge exam

Completion time & cost:

The instrument rating can typically be earned in one month to six months, depending upon the frequency of training. Full time students who fly and study daily can complete the rating in as little as four weeks. Students who train two days per week can expect to complete the rating in about five to six months. The average Cost is $7000 – $8,500.

Certificate requirements listed are based on far part 141 flight training requirements.
*the cost of the designated pilot examiner and knowledge exam is the responsibility of the student

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