INSTRUMENT PILOT

 

Getting instrument rated makes all the difference when you want to go flying but weather conditions are not safe for visual flight rules. An instrument rating gives you an added layer of safety on longer flights if the weather is questionable and makes you legal to fly in worse weather conditions when others cannot. Instrument ratings are also required for a commercial pilot to able to transport passengers outside of the local area or at night.

How to Get Started

There are two major things to complete before you complete your instrument rating; both the ground portion and the flight portion of training. To get started, you will need to:

  • Enroll in an instrument ground school. Avian Flight Center offers an instrument training option which you can read about here.

  • Begin flight training with us in one of our IFR certified aircraft. To get signed up and begin scheduling flights, call or contact us.

  • Schedule a free orientation with us to get more information. We are currently offering free orientations with our Chief Pilot or Assistant Chief Pilot where they provide you with more information on flight training and can answer any questions you might have. It’s a great opportunity to check out our office and aircraft as well. You can contact us here to schedule.

 
Adrian-Andler.jpg

Stages of Flight Training

STAGE I – Basic Attitude Instrument Flying

This stage will introduce you to basic instrument attitude flying. You will learn to fly straight and level, turns, constant speed climbs and descents, and other maneuvers solely by reference to instruments.

STAGE II – Instrument Flight RuleS (IFR) Cross County

The second stage of instrument flying is where you will learn about the IFR enroute structure and instrument flight planning. You will plan and fly IFR cross countries using both ground and space based nav-aids. You will also learn the IFR functions of your avionics, how to file IFR flight plans, copy clearances, interpret weather, and fly safely in the system.

STAGE III – IFR approach procedures

The third stage is where you will become more proficient at flying IFR approaches and prepare for the check ride. The training during this stage will build upon and incorporate missed approach procedures, holds, and circle-to-land approaches. This stage is completed when you pass your IFR check ride and are an instrument rated pilot.

STAGE IV – CHECKRIDE

The end of your training will consist of preparation for your practical test. You will work with your instructor on all of the required ground knowledge items and flight maneuvers until you can meet the standards of the practical test. The practical test is taken with an FAA designated examiner and will consist of an oral exam and a flight test. Your instructor will insure that you are completely prepared not only to pass the checkride but that you are an overall safe and competent pilot. Once you pass your checkride, you will be an instrument pilot!

ESTIMATED COST

  • 21 Hours Flight time

    • Cessna 172L, M (N1115U) $ 3,759.00*

    • Cessna 172R $ 4,095.00*

  • 14 Hours Redbird AATD $ 1190.00*

  • Instrument Pilot Ground School $ 395.00

  • 35 Hours Flight Instruction $ 2,275.00*

  • Jeppesen Inst/Comm Pilot Kit (if not already purchased) $ 305.00

  • Pre/Post-Flight Briefings $ 1,375.00**

  • FAA Written Exam $ 175.00

  • FAA Private Pilot Practical Test $ 600.00***

Total Cost Estimate

Cessna 172L, M (N1115U) $ 10,074.00*

Cessna 172R $ 10,410.00*

There is a requirement for 50 hours of PIC cross-country time under Part 61 training regulations that is not figured into this calculation. The 50 hours is not required for an instrument rating under Part 141 training regulations if Instrument Ground School is completed through an Avian Flight Center approved Part 141 Ground School program.

*The above costs are based on FAA part 141 minimums and actual past student costs.
**The ground instruction time is approximate and depends on the knowledge of the student.
***These costs are averages and may vary depending on the Designated Pilot Examiner.

These prices are a guideline to approximate total flight costs. They are based on current (February, 2022) aircraft prices in the aircraft suitable for that type of training. All times are based on FAA Part 141 minimums, or an average of past students. Everyone learns at a different pace, therefore, these times are not guaranteed for everyone.