Pilot flying on IFR flight

Instrument Rating

Cessna 172XP control panel

Instrument Rating

About the program

The Instrument Rating (IR) is a critical qualification that allows you to fly in low visibility and adverse weather conditions using instruments. Whether you're looking to enhance your private pilot skills or pursue a career in commercial aviation, the IR is an essential step in your journey. At Blitz Aviation, our IR program provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel as an instrument-rated pilot.

Our IR program is designed to deepen your understanding of instrument flight and enhance your proficiency in IFR operations. With a focus on precision and safety, our program prepares you to navigate and operate aircraft using instrument references alone. By combining expert instruction with hands-on experience, we'll help you become a skilled and confident instrument-rated pilot.

What key steps will you take to complete the program?

  • Step 1

    Start Flight Training

    Start your Instrument Rating by pairing up with a CFII. Accumulate a minimum of 50 hours of cross country flight time as PIC, including 40 hours of dedicated instrument training. Through guided practice in navigating approaches and holds, you'll gain the confidence to fly solely by reference to instruments, enabling safe and effective flight in diverse conditions.

  • Step 2

    Pass the Written Exam

    Prepare to succeed by learning the topics covered in the Instrument Rating written exam. Study regulations, navigation, meteorology, and instrument systems, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of instrument flight principles. Passing this exam not only signifies your theoretical expertise but also solidifies your ability to make informed decisions in real world instrument flying situations.

  • Step 3

    Complete Long Cross Country

    A pivotal step in your journey is completing an instrument cross-country flight, covering a minimum of 250 nautical miles along airways or ATC-directed routes. This experience equips you with the ability to navigate under IFR conditions, exposing you to diverse weather and navigation challenges. Successfully completing this flight showcases your proficiency in real-world instrument navigation.

  • Step 4

    Complete the Instrument Checkride

    The checkride marks the culmination of your efforts, assessing both your theoretical knowledge and practical instrument flying skills. Pass the oral portion of the exam which covers regulations, procedures, and decision making. Then, complete a flight test where you'll demonstrate precise instrument maneuvers, approaches, and communications. Upon passing, you'll emerge as a confident instrument rated pilot, ready to safely navigate the skies in challenging weather conditions.

Instrument Rating Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Instrument Rating training at Blitz Aviation.

An Instrument Rating (IR) allows you to fly in clouds and low visibility conditions using only the aircraft's instruments for navigation and control. This greatly increases your flying capabilities and safety margins, allowing you to fly in weather that would ground visual flight rule (VFR) pilots.
While not required for all flying, an Instrument Rating significantly increases your safety and capabilities as a pilot. It allows you to fly in marginal weather, provides better training in precision flying, and is required for most commercial pilot jobs.
Most students complete their Instrument Rating in 3-6 months with regular training. Our accelerated 14-day program can get you certified much faster with intensive daily training. The minimum requirement is 40 hours of instrument time.
VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flying relies on the pilot's ability to see and avoid obstacles and other aircraft. IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flying uses instruments and air traffic control for navigation and separation, allowing flight in clouds and poor visibility conditions.

Start Your Journey Today!

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