California Flight School Instrument Rating
Instrument Rating Prerequisites:
Hold at least a private pilot certificate Be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language. Have at least a 3rd class Medical Certificate Log at least 50 hours of cross-country time as PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC) Log at least 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time At least 15 hours of instrument flight training At least 3 hours in preparation for the Practical (flight) Test. One cross-country flight under IFR, distance of at least 250 NM Pass a Knowledge (written) and Practical (flight) Test
Here is our process for the instrument rating:
1. Decide on a timeline.
14 day accelerated course or weekly lesson? Your call.
2. You reserve your spot
If you decide on the accelerated course please be aware that this will take some advance planning and scheduling.
3. Complete all requirements FAR 61.65 d) 1)
You need to arrive with all requirements met, including the completion of the Instrument Knowledge Test and all required prerequisite flight time of FAR 61.65 d) 1).
We then email some homework to you. You will receive our checklist, some flight plan assignments etc.
There will be telephone / online / zoom interactions before you start.
4. Flight Training
Your flight training will be scheduled according to your request, accelerated or just part time.
No pre-payment is required.
FAQ:
Can I start without having the instrument rating knowledge test completed?
You could, however... you would likely be wasting time and money, in our 27 year experience this has never been a good idea.
I have already started training, can I finish it in 10 - 14 days?
If your partial instrument training was recent and of high quality it is possible, we have seen it done.
Can I bring my own airplane to train in?
Maybe. That depends on the aircraft, its condition and equipment. Please inquire.
Can I train in a glass cockpit?
You can train in both analog and glass cockpit setups. Our simulator can be reconfigured to reflect the cockpit of your choice.
