Instrument Rating Training in San Diego California
Instrument rating allows pilots to fly under instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The certification enables pilots to navigate solely using the aircraft's instruments, crucial for flying in reduced visibility or challenging weather. Our flight school in San Diego provides instrument rating training in San Diego, California. The IFR (instrument flight rules) course will provide the flight skills needed to operate an aircraft in a broader range of conditions (in accordance with FAR Part 91).
How to Get Your Instrument Rating:
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Eligibility: Hold a current Private Pilot License (PPL) and medical certificate, and be proficient in English.
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Ground School: Complete training covering aeronautical knowledge, IFR operations, and regulations. Pass the FAA written exam (60 questions).
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Flight Training: Accumulate at least 40 hours of actual or simulated IFR flight time (this can be accomplished VFR with a safety pilot). For a detailed description of the instrument rating requirements, visit 14 CFR § 61.65 (D). Additionally, you will need 15 hours with an instructor and a 250 nautical mile cross-country flight with varied instrument approaches.
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Check-Ride: Successfully pass a practical test with an FAA examiner to receive the Instrument Rating certification.
Instrument Rating Program Requirements:
To qualify for the program, ensure you fulfill the following prerequisites:​
1. Private Pilot Certificate:
To enroll in the Instrument Rating Program, you will first need your Private Pilot Certificate.
2. FAA Medical Certificate:
Obtain at least a Third-Class Medical Certificate from an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner to ensure you meet the physical and mental requirements for instrument flying.
3. Instrument Rating Knowledge Test:
You'll need to pass the FAA Instrument Rating Knowledge Test, demonstrating your understanding of advanced aeronautical concepts. Self-study by using Sheppard Air (Test Prep) - pay attention to their detailed steps and get ready to score 100% on your exam.
Instrument Rating Course Highlights
​Key components of our IFR training program in San Diego can be seen below.
Instrument Rating Cost and Timeline:
The instrument rating course takes 4 to 6 months to complete. FlySocal offers a flexible training schedule so student pilots can pick the time that best suits them.
Instrument Rating Cost and Timeline:
Total Cost for Instrument Rating: $18,650
(This includes the required Cross-Country PIC time under FAR 61.65 (d)(1)).
Additional Expenses: Approximately $1,800 for the checkride fee and online ground school.
Final program costs may vary depending on lesson frequency and individual progress. The table below provides a projected cost breakdown for the FAA Instrument Rating (ASEL).
Note: The required solo cross-country hours can be shared with a safety pilot, reducing the cost of this portion by up to 50%.
Program | Hours | Cost |
|---|---|---|
Total Cost | 75 Hours | $ 18,650 |
Solo Cross Country | 35 Hours | $ 6,000 |
Dual Lessons | 40 Hours Dual | $ 10,400 |
Pre/Post Flight | 10 Hours | $ 900 |
Ground Instruction | 15 Hours | $ 1,350 |
How To Earn Your Instrument Rating in California
To earn your instrument rating in California and fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) in diverse meteorological conditions you will need to complete the following. After meeting these requirements, you can apply for an instrument rating on your pilot certificate.
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Find an Instrument Flight Instructor (CFI-I): Your journey begins with selecting a qualified CFI-I for comprehensive flight training (Like FlySocal)
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Complete Training: Instrument training involves a minimum of 40 hours of instrument flying.
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Understand Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Federal Aviation Regulations parts 61 and 91, along with other relevant IFR operations regulations.
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Pass Exams: You must successfully pass a written exam at an FAA-approved center and a practical test (check ride) conducted by an FAA-authorized examiner.
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Logbook Requirements: Maintain a logbook documenting your instrument flying time and cross-country experience, which includes at least 40 hours of instrument flight time and 50 hours of cross-country flying.
Why is Instrument Rating Important for Pilots?
The instrument rating training offers beginner pilots their first exposure to the intricacies of the National Airspace System, radar operations, and air traffic control mechanisms. It is important as pilots will be qualified to operate in the same airspace as turbine airplanes.
Holding an instrument rating is vital as it increases a pilot's ability to handle diverse weather conditions, ensuring safer and more reliable flight in situations where visibility is limited. For commercial and airline pilots, the rating is mandatory to receive a commercial pilot license. Instrument-rated pilots follow air traffic control guidance and flight plans filed with the FAA. To maintain their proficiency, instrument-rated pilots must undergo regular training every six months. Instrument Rating training is a necessary step for pilots wanting to advance their aviation careers, especially in commercial aviation.
Get Your Instrument Rating in California
An instrument-rated pilot has the legal capability to navigate through clouds, rain, and fog. It significantly expands their operational capabilities and remain in the air rather than grounded during adverse weather conditions. Those pilots wishing to fly in these conditions must obtain an instrument rating, which can be added to their existing private or commercial pilot certificate.
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With flexible timelines and a comprehensive curriculum, FlySocal makes it easier than ever to train for and receive your Instrument Rating.
Don't let adverse weather conditions keep you grounded! Schedule your Instrument Rating course with us today!