With an Instrument rating, one obtains the ability to evaluate weather and fly solely through referencing instruments. With the preparation and understanding of flying in difficult weather, an instrument pilot has the ability to fly anywhere without ever even looking out the window, except of course, for takeoff and landing. Flight training for instrument rating will provide pilots with an introduction to the National Airspace System, as well as radar and air traffic control operations.  

Requirements:

-Hold at least a current Private pilot certificate or be concurrently applying for a private pilot certificate.

-Be at least 17 years of age

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

-Obtain at least a current third-class medical certificate

-Receive and log ground training

-Log at least 50 hours of cross country flight time as a Pilot in Command (PIC) including at least 10 hours in an airplane.

-Log 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time, which must include:

-15 hours with a CFII Instructor

-3 hours of instrument flight training within two months of the practical test

-Instrument flight training on cross country procedures, to include a cross country flight under instrument flight rules with:

-A flight of 250nm along airways or by directed routing from ATCT

-An instrument approach at each

-3 different kinds of approaches with the use of navigation system.

-Pass a knowledge test as well as the practical test