Instrument Rating: Why Are You Waiting?

Richard Donaldson

Wednesday, September 07, 2022 at 12:11 PM ET

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The capability and precision that an instrument rating lends to your flying opens up a new world. [Julie Boatman]

Key Takeaways:

The article strongly recommends obtaining an instrument rating (IFR) immediately after a private pilot certificate, asserting it's crucial for experiencing all aspects of flying and developing superior piloting skills.
IFR training acts as a "firehose of learning," significantly refining precision in navigation, communication, and aircraft control, with key lessons including the "compass rose" concept for hold entries and mastering instrument approach procedures.
Successfully completing the instrument rating dramatically increases a pilot's confidence and safety, simplifying VFR flying and preparing them to handle challenging conditions where visual references are absent.

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Does it make sense to go for your instrument rating after you complete your private pilot certificate? Honestly, I am not sure how you would justify not doing it…

I just completed my instrument rating about 10 months after finishing my private, by training under Part 61 (as opposed to going through a Part 141 curriculum). I can now say with confidence that a pilot can’t really experience all flying has to offer without it. The rating opens up so much more to you as a pilot and ensures you can fly with precision—and it will teach you to think about flying in a different way.