An Instrument Rating (IR) is a pilot rating earned through intensive training focused on flying solely by reference to instruments.
It is arguably one of the most valuable ratings you can add to your pilot certificate and is a fun and challenging discipline of flight training. A well-trained and proficient instrument pilot can fly an airplane from point A to point B without ever having to look out the window except for takeoff and landing; it is truly a remarkable skill.
It’s learning to fly without relying on your vision but more on your technical skills. In situations where the weather is bad or clouds are covering your vision, learning instrument rating will help you maneuver in bad weather conditions. It will help you make a safer, better and more technical pilot.
Extra layer of safety just in case things do not go as planned during a flight. Not only will the pilot understand more about the weather and what to expect, if the situation really became dire and their only solution was to fly through the clouds, they could safely do so in an aircraft with IFR capabilities.
While it is possible to earn a commercial certificate without obtaining an instrument rating, doing so limits the types of jobs and flying you can do with your commercial certificate.
A pilot may also opt to get an instrument rating if they want to become a flight instructor.
Our Part 141 program provides a time sensitive training environment, while our Part 61 program provides a flexible training environment to meet your schedule. In both programs you will achieve your Student Pilot Certificate and Private Pilot Certificate.
