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Instrument Rating

Fly with Confidence in Reduced Visibility

Learn the advanced skills required to safely navigate using instruments when outside visual references are limited.

Master Advanced Navigation Techniques

Train using real-world instrument procedures, air traffic control communications, and cross-country flight planning.

Enhance Safety and Decision Making

Develop stronger situational awareness, weather evaluation, and aeronautical decision-making skills.

Expand Your Aviation Opportunities

An Instrument Rating increases pilot proficiency and opens the door to more advanced training and career pathways.

FAA Minimums

While the FAA minimum for a Helicopter Instrument Rating is 40 total hours of instruction, most students require additional training to achieve proficiency and confidently prepare for the FAA practical test.

Prerequisites

You must have logged a minimum 50 hours of cross-country flight time as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) which includes at least:

  • 10 hours in helicopters

Total Flight Time

You must log a minimum of 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time which includes at least:

  • 15 hours of instrument training with a certified instrument flight instructor

Dual Instruction

15 hours of instrument flight instruction with a certified instrument flight instructor must include:

  • One Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) cross-country flight that meet the following criteria:

    • At least 250 nautical miles total distance​ along IFR routes

    • Three different types of instrument approaches at three different airports

Other Requirements

In addition to the flight experience, you must also:

  • Hold at least a helicopter Private Pilot certificate

  • Hold a valid medical certificate

  • Pass the FAA knowledge test

  • Pass the practical test (checkride)

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