top of page

INSTRUMENT RATING

Benefits of getting your Instrument Rating at NFS:

Redbird_Cockpit.webp

  • 33% cost savings using the simulator: 
           Airplane - $150-$170/hr + $80/hr for instructor vs. 
           Simulator - $70/hr + $70-$80/hr for instructor 

  • One hour in the simulator is equal to 2 or more hours in the airplane, in terms of learning

  • In the simulator you have 100% of the instructor's attention 

  • Procedures can be repeated in the simulator - Ability to pause and replay scenarios 

  • You can do 20 hours in the airplane and 20 hours in the simulator
    to meet your 40 hour requirement*

  • With our Instrument Rating Training course, you can earn your instrument rating quickly and without the hassle of weather delays or other interruptions. 

Why is an instrument rating worthwhile?

​

  • Improved Safety: An instrument rating allows a pilot to fly in a wider range of weather conditions, which can help avoid dangerous situations caused by unexpected weather changes or low visibility.

  • Increased Confidence: With the ability to fly in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), pilots can feel more confident and prepared to handle a variety of flight situations.

  • Expanded Flight Opportunities: An instrument rating allows pilots to fly in a wider range of airspace and airports, including those with more complex air traffic control (ATC) procedures, which can open up more opportunities for travel and business.

  • Career Advancement: Many aviation jobs, such as those in commercial aviation or corporate aviation, require an instrument rating. Having an instrument rating can help pilots advance their career and increase their job opportunities.

  • Enhanced Pilot Skills: Instrument rating training can help pilots develop a deeper understanding of aircraft systems, navigation, and communication procedures, which can enhance their overall piloting skills.

  • Personal Challenge: Obtaining an instrument rating requires a significant amount of dedication and hard work, which can be personally rewarding and satisfying for pilots. It can also be a great way to challenge oneself and develop new skills.

Casual pilot, Piper Warrior or C172 type: Estimated $50-$100 annual lower premium with Instrument Rating; Casual pilot Complex/TAA C182 or Piper Arrow type: Often insurance companies will decline to quote coverages for Private Pilots in high performance/complex airplanes unless they have an instrument rating. For example, most companies will not quote coverages for a Bonanza for a 250-300 hour Private Pilot until he/she has their instrument rating. However, one can expect annual premium to be $100-150 more expensive without an instrument rating for typical complex aircraft like the Piper Arrow. The amount of premium saved is not the issue, but instead the availability of insurance coverage.

​

* The specific number of hours that can be flown in a simulator to meet the requirements for an instrument rating can vary depending on the country, regulatory agency, and the specific training program. However, generally, a maximum of 20-40 hours of simulator time can be used to meet the requirements for an instrument rating.

​

In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows up to 20 hours of simulator time to be used towards the total 40 hours of instrument time required for an instrument rating. The remaining 20 hours must be completed in an actual aircraft. However, some training programs may require additional simulator time beyond the FAA minimums.

​

It's important to note that the FAA has specific requirements for the type and level of simulator used for instrument training. For example, simulators used for instrument training must be approved by the FAA and must meet certain criteria related to their visual and motion systems, as well as their software and hardware. Additionally, a certified flight instructor must be present during all simulator training sessions.

Overall, the number of hours that can be flown in a simulator to meet the requirements for an instrument rating can vary, but generally, a maximum of 20-40 hours of simulator time can be used, depending on the regulatory agency and training program.

​

bottom of page