FAA Allows More Simulator Time for Instrument Rating

Stephen Pope

Thursday, December 04, 2014 at 11:21 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The FAA has increased the maximum number of hours pilots can log toward an instrument rating using approved advanced aviation training devices (AATDs) from 10 to 20 hours for Part 61 students.
Effective January 20, this rule harmonizes industry standards and allows Part 141 students to complete up to 40 percent of their total flight training hours in an aviation training device (ATD).
A noteworthy change is that students are no longer required to wear view-limiting devices (like Foggles) during ATD training, as the devices can adequately simulate Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC).

See a mistake? Contact us.

The FAA yesterday issued long-awaited rules that increase the number of hours pilots may log toward an instrument rating using approved aviation training devices, raising the limit to 20 hours in advanced training devices versus 10 hours under the old rules.

In reality many simulator makers had received special authorizations from the FAA to allow more than the 10-hour minimum. The new rule, set to take effect on January 20, harmonizes standards across the industry.