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Instrument Pilot

What is an Instrument Rating?

An Instrument Rating (IR) is an additional certification that pilots can acquire after obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL). It allows you to fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), enabling you to navigate solely using cockpit instruments when visual cues are limited or unavailable due to weather conditions like clouds, fog, or heavy rain.

Why Pursue an Instrument Rating?

  • Enhanced Safety: Gain the skills to handle unexpected weather changes confidently.

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  • Greater Flexibility: Fly in a wider range of weather conditions, reducing delays and cancellations.

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  • Professional Advancement: An essential step for those aiming for a commercial or airline pilot career.

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  • Improved Navigation Skills: Master complex airspace and navigation systems.

Program Overview

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Enhance Your Aviation Skills with Our Instrument Pilot Training Program in San Diego! At Pacific Flight Training, our program is tailored to help you master flying in diverse weather conditions, empowering you to navigate safely and confidently when visual references are limited. Take your piloting abilities to the next level today!

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Our training includes:

  • Online Ground School: We utilize a trusted third-party provider to offer comprehensive online ground training. You’ll cover essential topics such as Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), meteorology, navigation systems, and air traffic control procedures, all at your own pace and convenience.

  • In-Flight Training: All flight training is conducted using well-maintained Cessna 172 aircraft from the Plus One Flyers flying club. You'll practice skills like precision and non-precision approaches, holding patterns, and en-route navigation under the guidance of a certified instructor.

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What You’ll Learn

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Throughout the Instrument Pilot Training program, you’ll gain:

  • Instrument Navigation Proficiency: Learn to rely solely on cockpit instruments for safe and accurate navigation, even in challenging weather conditions.

  • Precision and Non-Precision Approaches: Master various approach types to ensure safe landings at airports with different navigational aids.

  • Holding Patterns and Procedures: Understand and execute holding patterns effectively, preparing for real-world scenarios such as traffic delays and diversions.

  • Flight Planning and Decision-Making: Develop robust flight planning skills, including the use of IFR charts and procedures, and improve decision-making under instrument conditions.

  • Air Traffic Control Communication: Learn to communicate effectively with ATC, following proper protocols and procedures for safe and efficient flight operations under IFR.

FAA Requirements


The following requirements must be met to obtain an Instrument Rating:

 

Be at least 17 years of age

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Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language

 

Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate

 

Hold a current medical certificate appropriate to the license

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  • Total Time: 50 hours cross-country flight time as pilot-in-command, of which 10 hours must be in airplanes.

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  • Dual: 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time under the guidance of an authorized flight instructor, including:

    • 15 hours of instrument flight training with an authorized instructor in the areas of operation required for the Instrument Rating.

    • Cross-country flight of at least 250 nautical miles along airways or directed by ATC routing, an instrument approach at each airport, and three different kinds of approaches using navigation systems

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Pass the required FAA knowledge test

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Pass the required FAA practical test

Take the Next Step in Your Aviation Journey

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Elevate your piloting skills and unlock new opportunities by becoming an instrument-rated pilot. Contact us today to learn more about our training programs, schedule, and pricing.

  • What are the requirements to start flight training?
    You must be at least 16 years old to start your private pilot training Must be proficient in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding english Be a high school graduate or GED completer Must be able to obtain a FAA medical
  • How much does flight training cost?
    The cost of flight training can vary, but aircraft rental is $140-160 per hour, and the instructor fee is $85 per hour. You can expect to spend around 50-80 hours to complete your private pilot training. Additional costs include ground school, written exams, materials, and DPE (Designated Pilot Examiner) fees. Overall, obtaining your private pilot license can cost anywhere from $12,750 to $19,450.
  • Can I train on a part-time basis?
    Yes, we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate part-time students. Whether you have a full-time job, school, or other commitments, we can tailor a training plan that fits your schedule, allowing you to progress at your own pace.
  • What is a discovery/intro flight?
    A Discovery Flight is an introductory flying experience that allows you to get in the airplane and take the controls under the guidance of a flight instructor. During the flight, you’ll learn basic maneuvers and experience the thrill of flying. It’s a great way to decide if flight training is right for you!
  • What’s the difference between Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools?
    Part 61 flight schools offer a more flexible and cost-effective approach to training, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their individual needs and schedules. This flexibility can reduce overall costs, as students can progress at their own pace and focus on areas where they need more practice, without being bound to a strict syllabus. Part 141 schools, on the other hand, follow a structured, FAA-approved syllabus with specific checkpoints and requirements. While this approach can be beneficial for those seeking a more regimented program, it often comes at a higher cost.
  • What should I bring to my first flight lesson?
    For your first flight lesson, bring a government-issued photo ID, your logbook (if you have one), a notepad and pen for taking notes, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing. It's also helpful to bring water and a positive attitude!
  • How often should I fly to make steady progress?
    Flying 2-3 times a week is recommended to maintain proficiency and progress steadily through the training.
  • What are the career opportunities after completing flight training?
    After completing flight training, you can pursue careers as a flight instructor, commercial pilot, airline pilot, or corporate pilot. You can also explore roles in aerial photography, agricultural flying, and banner towing.
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