Instrument Rating

Master the system. Fly through the clouds. Become a safer, more precise pilot.

Glass cockpit in IFR conditions

Real Weather Confidence

The PPL teaches you to fly the airplane; the Instrument Rating teaches you to fly the system. You will learn to trust your instruments when your body lies to you, and how to operate safely when the weather goes down.

We don't just train for the test. We train for the day you actually have to shoot an approach to minimums.

Choose Your Path

Slow and steady, or intense and fast.

Hourly / Flexible

Train at your own pace. Integrate training flights into your cross-country time building. Also available for pilots flying their own aircraft.

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IFR Bootcamps

10-Day or 14-Day immersion. Dedicated aircraft and instructor. You show up, fly hard, and leave with your rating.

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The Journey

Cockpit Instruments

01. The Scan

You'll spend hours "under the hood" (wearing view-limiting foggles). You will learn to ignore your inner ear and control the airplane solely by reference to the instruments.

Instrument Approach Plate

02. The System

Mastering the airspace system. You'll learn Holds, Arcs, Intercepts, and how to shoot approaches down to minimums (200ft AGL) in simulated or actual clouds.

Pilot holding temporary airman certificate

03. The Checkride

The Practical Test. You will demonstrate your ability to file a flight plan, handle in-flight emergencies, and execute approaches to safety standards with a DPE.

The Blueprint

What it actually takes to earn your Instrument Rating.

Eligibility

  •   Hold a Private Pilot License
  •   Read, speak, and understand English
  •   Medical: Current 3rd Class or BasicMed

Flight Experience

FAA Minimums (Part 61)

  •   50 Hours Cross-Country PIC Time
  •   40 Hours Actual or Simulated Instrument Time
  •   15 Hours Dual Instruction (with CFII)
  •   250 NM IFR Cross-Country Flight

The Tests

  • 1. 
    Knowledge Test (IRA):

    60 questions on weather, navigation, and regulations. Passing score is 70%.

  • 2. 
    Practical Test (Checkride):

    Oral exam and flight test. You will plan a flight and fly 3 different approaches.