Req 5b — Instrument Rating
After earning a private pilot certificate, many pilots pursue an instrument rating — and for good reason. An instrument rating is not a separate certificate; it is an add-on qualification that dramatically expands what a pilot can do.
What Is an Instrument Rating?
An instrument rating certifies that a pilot can fly an aircraft solely by reference to the instruments in the cockpit — without being able to see the ground or the horizon. This is called flying under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), as opposed to Visual Flight Rules (VFR), where the pilot navigates by looking outside.
Why Does It Matter?
Without an instrument rating, a pilot with a private pilot certificate can only fly in clear weather — when visibility is good and the sky is mostly free of clouds. That sounds fine, until you realize how often weather can disrupt a flight plan.
Benefits of the Instrument Rating
1. Fly in more weather conditions
This is the biggest benefit. An instrument-rated pilot can fly through clouds, in rain, and in reduced visibility that would ground a VFR-only pilot. You are no longer stuck on the ground waiting for perfect weather.
2. Greater safety and confidence
Instrument training makes you a fundamentally better pilot. You learn to trust your instruments instead of your body’s unreliable senses (which can trick you in clouds), and you develop the precision and discipline needed to fly exact headings, altitudes, and approach procedures.
3. Access to the air traffic control system
IFR pilots are in constant communication with air traffic control, receiving radar guidance, traffic advisories, and separation from other aircraft. This is especially valuable in busy airspace near major cities.
4. More reliable travel
If you fly for personal transportation — to visit family, attend events, or go on trips — an instrument rating means you complete far more flights. VFR-only pilots cancel or delay a significant percentage of planned trips due to weather.
5. Required for professional aviation careers
Every professional pilot certificate beyond private pilot requires an instrument rating. If you dream of becoming a commercial pilot or airline captain, the instrument rating is a mandatory stepping stone.
What Does It Take?
- Prerequisites: Hold a private pilot certificate
- Flight time: At least 50 hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command, plus 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time
- Training: Ground school covering weather theory, instrument approach procedures, IFR regulations, and air traffic control procedures
- Exams: Written knowledge test and a practical test (check ride) demonstrating proficiency in instrument flight procedures