An instrument rating is one of the more difficult training courses because it demands a higher workload and precise aircraft control with references solely by instrumentation. However it is recommended that every pilot get their instrument rating to become a safer, more experienced pilot while enabling the pilot to utilize the aircraft in more adverse weather conditions. At Cardinal Wings Aviation, we will teach you to perfect your skills of instrument flying by flying in actual weather conditions and what factors to consider when making a go/no-go decision. Our instructors have experience in almost all weather conditions and we encourage students to gain that experience with us before attempting it on their own voluntarily or involuntarily. Our aircraft are equipped with both standard instrumentation as well as “glass cockpit” instrumentation that enhances situational awareness. We encourage students to share time in the aircraft while building time to practice Crew Resource Management as well as keep their costs to a minimum.

FAA’s basic requirements for the Instrument Rating

- You must hold a current Private Pilot Certificate
- You must read, speak and understand the English language
- You must pass a 60 question computerized test based on the ground training knowledge you receive and make at least a 70 score.
- You must have at least 50 hours of logged cross-country pilot in command time
- You must log 40 hours actual or simulated instrument flight time 15 of these hours must be with an instructor
- You must receive instruction on one cross-country IFR flight of at least 250 nautical miles and execute 3 different types of approaches on the trip.

With all of that done, you will then take a “check ride” with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. This includes an oral exam by the examiner and a flight test where you demonstrate your proficiency in the plane.

 

This course is intended for those serious about adding an instrument rating to their private license, and want to get it done fast and efficiently. This course assumes the student has a private pilots license and 50 hours of PIC cross country time, including at least 25 hours of simulated or actual instrument time. If more time is needed, the student will pay for the normal rental of the aircraft beyond the 15 hours. If the course is completed with less than 15 hours, the student will be able to rent the aircraft free of charge until 15 hours is achieved. This course includes:

• 15 Hours of Flight Time Including

  -Local Training
  -Simulated or Actual Instrument Conditions

• 15 Hours with a Flight Instructor
• Instrument Pilot Ground School
• Written Exam

Cessna 172M                                                                                                   $2,995.00

Cirrus SR20            (Includes Cirrus Kit)                                                        $4,825.00
(Price does not include Examiners Fee of approximately $350.00)

Standard Instrument Rating Course

This course is intended for those serious about adding an instrument rating to their private license, and want to use a slower more in-depth approach. This course assumes the student has a private pilots license and 42 hours of PIC cross country time, including at least 15 hours of simulated or actual instrument time. If more time is needed, the student will pay for the normal rental of the aircraft and PCATD beyond the 25 hours. If the course is completed with less than 25 hours, the student will be able to rent the aircraft or PCATD free of charge until 25 hours is achieved. This course includes:

• 25 Hours of Flight Time Including

  -25 in Airplane
  -3 hours in Advanced PCATD

• 28 Hours with a Flight Instructor
• Instrument Pilot Ground School (Including Jeppesen Instrument/Commercial Pilot Kit and 30 Hours of Instruction)
• Written Exam

Cessna 172M                                                                                                   $4,210.00

Cirrus SR20            (Includes Cirrus Kit)                                                       $7,390.00
(Price does not include Examiners Fee of approximately $350.00)