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Instrument Pilot

Training Rate: $60.00/Hr.

"An instrument-rated pilot doesn’t just fly — they navigate the sky with precision, skill, and confidence."

Ready to take your flying to the next level? Earning your Instrument Rating opens the door to more confident, capable flying—especially when weather or visibility challenge your plans. With this training, you'll learn to rely on your instruments, manage complex airspace, and fly safely in IMC conditions.​

I offer personalized, practical instruction tailored to your goals—whether you're working toward a career in aviation or simply want to fly with greater precision and peace of mind. From IFR procedures to real-world decision-making, I’ll help you build the skills and confidence to fly safely through whatever’s ahead.

Training Details

1.

General Eligibility

14 CFR 61.65 (a)

  1. ​​Must be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.

  2. Must hold a current Private Pilot Certificate.

  3. Obtain and maintain an FAA Class 3 medical. (Click HERE for more information.

  4. Pass the IRA ASEL Written Exam.

2.

Estimated Duration

& Cost

Duration: 4–6 Months

Cost Breakdown:

Aircraft Rental: $185/hr (50 hrs):  $9,250

Dual Instruction: $60/hr (40 hrs.): $2,400

PCF Membership (6 months): $258

FAA Medical Exam (3rd Class): $175

FAA Private Pilot PAR Written Exam: $175

FAA Practical Exam: $1,500

A/C Rental for Practical Exam (2 hrs): $370

Estimated Total: $14,128

4.

Minimum Knowledge Requirements

14 CFR 61.65 (b)

Before you can earn your instrument rating, you’ll need to complete ground training—either with a certified instructor or through a self-paced home study course. This training covers the essential knowledge you’ll need to fly safely and confidently in instrument conditions, including:

​

  • The FAA rules that apply to flying under IFR (Instrument Flight Rules)

  • How to use the Aeronautical Information Manual for IFR operations

  • How the air traffic control system works for instrument flying

  • Navigation systems and how to fly approaches using instruments

  • Reading and using IFR charts for en route and approach procedures

  • Understanding and interpreting weather reports and forecasts, plus spotting weather trends

  • How to fly safely and efficiently in instrument weather conditions

  • Recognizing dangerous weather and avoiding windshear

  • Making smart decisions in the cockpit, even under pressure

  • Working smoothly with your crew through effective communication and coordination


Whether you're training for personal growth or a professional career, this next step in your aviation journey will make you a more skilled and capable pilot.

3.

Minimum Experience Requirements

14 CFR 61.65 (d)

To qualify for an instrument-airplane rating, pilots must log the following flight experience:

 

  • 50 hours of cross-country time as pilot in command (PIC)

  • At least 10 of those hours must be in an airplane

  • 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time

  • 15 hours must be with an authorized instructor holding an instrument-airplane rating

  • 3 hours must be in an airplane within 2 calendar months before the checkride

  • Must include instrument training on cross-country procedures, featuring:

  • A 250-nautical-mile IFR cross-country flight

  • Instrument approaches at each airport

  • Three different types of approaches using navigation systems​​

  • During which time applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the areas of opertaion prescribed in 14 CFR 61.65 (c) found HERE.​​​

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This experience ensures that you are fully prepared for the varied scenarios you may face as a private pilot, building both skill and confidence in the cockpit.

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