Fly With Precision, Procedure, and Confidence in Instrument Conditions

Instrument Rating Training

The Instrument Pilot Rating requires additional training beyond the Private Pilot or Commercial Pilot certificate. This includes rules and procedures specific to instrument flying, additional instruction in meteorology, and more intensive training in flight solely by reference to instruments.

Testing consists of a written exam and a practical test, commonly known as the check ride. The check ride includes an oral component to verify that the applicant understands the theory of instrument flying, along with an actual flight to ensure the pilot has the practical skills required for safe IFR flight.

For many private pilots, one of the greatest benefits of the instrument rating is the ability to operate in instrument meteorological conditions, including flying in clouds. In the United States, all flights in Class A airspace must be conducted under IFR, and an instrument rating is also required for Special VFR operations at night.