Instrument Rating
Take your flying to the next level by mastering instrument navigation. Learn to operate safely in low visibility & all-weather conditions while developing the confidence to rely on your instruments.
ABOUT THIS RATING
The Instrument Rating transforms you from a fair-weather pilot into one who can fly confidently in clouds, low visibility, and instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). This is one of the most critical ratings for any aspiring airline pilot — and one of the most rewarding milestones in your training.
Over 8 weeks, you'll master ILS, VOR, and GPS approaches, learn to navigate solely by reference to instruments, communicate fluently with ATC under IFR flight plans, and develop the scan patterns and decision-making skills that professional pilots rely on every day.
Training takes place at Falcon Field (KFFZ) in Mesa, Arizona. Our combination of excellent weather for VFR training days and access to busy airspace for real-world IFR experience gives you the best of both worlds.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
- ILS, VOR & GPS approach procedures
- Cross-country IFR flight planning
- ATC communication proficiency
- Hold patterns & procedure turns
- Partial panel & emergency procedures
- Weather analysis & decision-making
ESTIMATED HOURS
PREREQUISITES & FAA REQUIREMENTS
PREREQUISITES
- Private Pilot Certificate
- FAA medical certificate (Class 1, 2, or 3)
- 50 hours of cross-country PIC time
FAA REQUIREMENTS
- 50 hours of cross-country flight time as PIC
- 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time
- 15 hours of instrument flight training with an instructor
- 250 nautical mile cross-country under IFR
- Instrument approaches at 3 different airports
- FAA Instrument Knowledge Test (written exam)
- Practical Test (checkride) with DPE
TRAINING INCLUDES
INVESTMENT
Prices are estimates and may vary based on individual progress.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
It's a rating added to your existing Private Pilot Certificate. In aviation terminology, it's specifically called the "Instrument Rating" — not a license or certificate.
Yes. The FAA allows up to 20 hours of approved simulator time to count toward your instrument training requirements. Our program includes significant sim time to maximize training efficiency.
Most students find the Instrument Rating more mentally demanding than the PPL. You're learning to trust instruments over your senses, which requires a new level of discipline and scan technique. Our structured curriculum makes this transition systematic.
START YOUR IR TRAINING
Take the next step in your aviation career. Contact us to discuss your training goals, schedule a tour of our facilities at Falcon Field, and learn how we can help you earn your instrument rating.