Instrument flight rules (IFR)

Instrument Rating (IR) – Master the Skies in Any Weather

in immokalee regional airport

The Instrument Rating (IR) is the next critical step in your pilot training, preparing you to confidently navigate through diverse weather conditions from our base at Immokalee Regional Airport. With your Private Pilot License (PPL) in hand, the IR enables you to master flying in low visibility and other challenging scenarios using solely your aircraft’s instruments. This qualification is essential for anyone aiming for a commercial aviation career or looking to significantly enhance their piloting skills.

$ 16,700

Our IFR package covers all the essential components of your training:

  • 35 Flight Hours in a Cessna 172 Aircraft

    This includes both simulated instrument conditions and actual weather flying, utilizing the Cessna 172—a plane celebrated for its reliability and forgiving flight characteristics. These hours are meticulously designed to develop your ability to operate the aircraft solely by instruments, enhancing your skills in navigation, approach, and adherence to ATC directives under IFR.

  • 68.50 Hours of Ground Instruction Including Pre/Debriefing

    Comprehensive ground sessions cover in-depth instrument flight theory, including understanding and interpreting flight instruments, navigation aids, flight planning, IFR procedures, and weather considerations. Pre-flight and post-flight debriefings are integral to this training, ensuring you grasp the complexities of instrument flying and learn from each flight session.

  • FAA Checkride with Examiner in a Cessna 172

    Culminates your training with an official FAA checkride, conducted in the familiar Cessna 172. This critical evaluation tests your instrument flying knowledge and skills, assessing your readiness to fly under instrument flight rules safely and competently.

  • Landing Fees, Fuel Surcharges, and Instructor Fees

    Our IR package includes all landing fees, instructor fees, and fuel surcharges, ensuring significant training expenses are covered. This arrangement allows you to focus more on learning and less on the overhead costs of flying. This structure keeps essential flight costs transparent and manageable while allowing flexibility in how you acquire other necessary tools.

  • Gleim Kit

    Provides targeted study materials specifically designed for IR candidates. The kit includes comprehensive textbooks, online resources, and practice tests that align with the FAA’s testing standards, helping you to thoroughly prepare for both the written exam and the practical test.

  • Support from Pilot Path Personal Engagement Manager

    Throughout your IR training, you'll receive personalized support from a dedicated engagement manager. This expert helps coordinate your training schedule, track your progress, and ensure you have the resources and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of instrument rating successfully.

35 hours flight time

68.5 Hours of Ground Instruction

• All landing, fuel and instructor fees included

What a day in the sky might look like

Invest in Your Future with Flexible Payment Options

The total cost for the comprehensive Instrument Rating package is $16,700. We understand that investing in your pilot training is a significant commitment, which is why we offer flexible payment plans to accommodate your financial needs. Starting with a $4,000 deposit, you can choose to spread the remaining balance over 6, 9, 12, or 18 months, allowing you to manage your budget while pursuing your aviation goals.

• Upfront payment: $16,700

• 6 months: $2,116.67/month MONTH

• 9 months: $1,411.11/month

• 12 months: $1,058.33/month

• 18 months: $705.56/month

These payment plans make it easier for you to pursue your dream without the need for large upfront costs. However, please note that all payments are non-refundable and training duration will go in line with payment schedule meaning you cannot finish training without all monthly payments being made. 

Why Choose the Instrument Rating?

Flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) is great, but the weather isn’t always perfect. With an Instrument Rating (IR), you’ll be able to fly in clouds, fog, rain, and other conditions that require instrument-only flying. The IR is also essential for pilots pursuing a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and airline careers, as it greatly enhances your capability and versatility as a pilot.

Seamless Progression from PPL to Instrument Rating

If you’ve already completed your Private Pilot License (PPL) with Pilot Path, moving on to the Instrument Rating is a natural next step. Our modular system ensures a smooth transition from one stage to the next, with continuous support from our team. With each module, you’re building toward your end goal of becoming a fully certified Commercial Pilot.

Here’s how Pilot Path supports your progression:

Why Train with Pilot Path?

Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way

At Pilot Path, we’re not just here to offer training modules—we’re here to guide you through the entire journey, from your first flight lesson to your final check ride. With our modular system, you’ll never feel like you’re flying solo when it comes to planning your training. Our team will ensure your transition from PPL to Instrument Rating is smooth and well-supported.

Real-World Flight Experience

GFTS have a team of experienced instructors that give you the skills you need to fly confidently in any weather conditions. You’ll get plenty of hands-on time in the cockpit, ensuring you’re fully prepared for real-world flying scenarios.

Comprehensive Support

Our Personal Engagement Managers and instructors work with you on every detail, from scheduling your lessons to preparing you for the FAA written exam and check ride. We also ensure your training is tailored to your pace and individual learning style, allowing you to complete the IR at your own speed.

Financial Flexibility

Pilot Path continues to offer flexible payment plans for the Instrument Rating, ensuring that your training is both affordable and manageable. We believe in making pilot training accessible without large upfront costs.

Aircraft

Seamless Instrument Rating with the Cessna 172

The Cessna 172 is ideal for Instrument Rating (IR) training following Private Pilot License (PPL) training due to:

  1. Familiarity: Students are already accustomed to its cockpit and handling, allowing more focus on mastering instruments.
  2. Stability: Its stable flight characteristics offer a reliable platform for practicing precise instrument maneuvers.
  3. Advanced Avionics: Equipped with essential navigation systems that facilitate learning under Instrument Flight Rules.
  4. Cost-Effectiveness: Using the same aircraft for both PPL and IR training reduces costs and streamlines training.
  5. Industry Standard: Its widespread use in training ensures skills gained are recognized and respected across the aviation industry.

Training in a Cessna 172 provides a seamless transition from PPL to IR, focusing on enhancing skills in a familiar environment.

Take the First Step Today

Ready to start your aviation journey? Contact us today to learn more about our Instrument Rating package and how Pilot Path can guide you every step of the way.

frequently asked questions (faqs)

The Instrument Rating (IR) allows you to fly in low visibility or bad weather conditions using only your aircraft’s instruments. It’s essential for anyone pursuing a career as a commercial pilot, as it increases your ability to fly safely in a wider range of situations.

The time to complete the IR depends on your availability and pace. On average, most students complete the Instrument Rating in 3 to 6 months, depending on how frequently they can fly.

You’ll be training in a Cessna 172, a top-tier model known for its reliability and suitability for instrument training.

The cost of the IR package is $16,700, with flexible payment plans available to make your training more affordable.

Yes, ground school is an essential part of the Instrument Rating program. You’ll learn about instrument flight rules, navigation, meteorology, and much more, ensuring you’re fully prepared for both your written exam and check ride.

You can get started by contacting us directly through our website, phone, or filling out the below contact form. Our team will guide you through the enrollment process and answer any questions.

Instrument Flight Rules Form
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