Instrument Rating
Instrument Rating
After achieving a Private or Commercial License, pilots often seek to enhance their skills or improve their employment prospects by adding an Instrument Rating. An instrument-rated pilot can conduct flying operations in a single-engine or multi-engine aircraft under the Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), in conditions where visual flying (VFR) would be impractical.
Pilots will learn IFR procedures and regulations, en-route procedures, and instrument approach procedures. Pilots can either choose between a Command Instrument Rating (CIR) or a Private Insturment Rating (PIFR).​
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Instrument flying is challenging but highly rewarding, and once mastered, it often becomes a pilot’s preferred method of operation over VFR flying.
CIR Requirements
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A Command Instrument Rating is the most advanced Instrument Rating and is usually most suited to the Commercial Pilot. This includes 2D and 3D approaches and departure endorsements.
​Prior to undertaking the CIR Flight test, you must:
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Hold either a PPL or CPL with an aircraft rating relevant to the instrument rating endorsement
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Pass the Instrument Rating Exam
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Have 50 hours Cross Country as PIC
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Have 40 hours of Instrument time
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Have 5 hours of night flying including 1 hour Solo
PIFR Requirements ​​
The difference between your PIFR and full Instrument rating is that you don’t have to hold 50hrs Pilot in Command time and less overall dual hours, making it even more achievable than ever before.
Prior to undertaking the PIFR Flight test, you must:
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Hold either a PPL or CPL with an aircraft rating relevant to the instrument rating endorsement
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Pass the Instrument Rating Exam
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20 hours instrument time
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10 hours must be dual instrument flight​