Get Your Instrument Rating in NYC!
Are you a private pilot looking to become an instrument-rated pilot?
As you aspire to earn your instrument rating, it's important to have the guidance of professional CFI-Is who can help make sense of the complex world of instrument flying.
Tip 1: Use a Flight Simulator
The 1st step to earn your instrument rating is to use a flight simulator, specifically an Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD). Our AATD simulator allows you to log 20 hours towards your Instrument Rating.
Tip 2: Get Your Written Done Early
We recommend using Sheppard Air Test Prep for your instrument-written preparation. While it may require a phone call to purchase, it's one of the best Test-preps .
Sporty's Instrument Rating Course as the ground school material. Dont forget the Instrument Flying Handbook and Instrument Procedures Handbook, which are free from the FAA Website.
Tip 3: Book Your Instrument Instructor Test at the same time as your Instrument Written Test
If you're planning to be an instructor, we highly recommend that you book the instrument instructor test when you meet the requirements for the instrument-knowledge test.
The question bank is pretty much the same, so it's a good opportunity to prepare for both tests at once. The test is good for two years.
Tip 4: Do Your High-Performance Training
If you're looking to transition from a Cessna to a Cirrus or get a complex endorsement, this is the perfect time to do it. While we work on your instrument rating, we could fly other airplanes to help you with the transition.
Do you need remote flight instruction?
We can help! If you can't come to us for in-person training, we offer virtual lessons via Zoom. Our remote instruction includes ground lessons and lessons in a flight simulator.
You don't need a flight simulator for our remote lessons. If you're working on an Instrument Rating, we can provide virtual lessons that cover briefing and explaining instrument procedures, written exam explanations, and check-ride preparation. Our goal is to give you the knowledge you need for your flight training.
If you have a Flight Simulator at home, we can help you use it as a training tool. You only need a basic joystick and a computer to get started. With our remote flight instruction, you can receive the same quality training as in-person instruction. You can not log this time towards your aeronautical experience.
Are you concerned about what to expect during each flight lesson?
Worry not, as we have you covered! Upon booking a lesson, you will receive an email outlining everything you need to know to prepare for your next lesson. The email will include a flight plan, links, and videos to review before the lesson.
Our use of automation ensures that your flight training is as efficient as possible. This approach allows us to focus on the areas that cannot be automated during your lesson, maximizing your time with our experienced airline pilot flight instructors who will be working with you as your instructors.
Steam Guage vs G1000 for Instrument Rating Training?
If you're currently flying steam gauge airplanes, you might be wondering how our Aviator.nyc G1000 Flight Simulator fits into your training. It's important to note that our simulator only simulates G1000 airplanes, not steam gauges. Over the years, we've observed that pilots who struggle with the difference in avionics are often those who try to use the simulator while flying.
Our recommendation is to complete your first 20 hours of training in our simulator and then focus on in-airplane flight training. Instrument flying is all about understanding the procedures, and this knowledge is not specific to the avionics you are flying. We believe that our simulator can help you build a solid foundation for your instrument flying, which will make your transition to a real airplane smoother and more efficient.
Find a Flight School
If you have prior experience with flight schools and are new to the NY and NJ area, you might be interested in our map, which highlights various flight schools that many of our former clients have attended. We only include flight schools with positive feedback from our clients.
It's crucial to note that we offer flight training exclusively using Certified Flight Simulator (AATD).
Given your past experience, you may already know what to ask the flight schools when exploring your options. Nonetheless, we recommend using our Flight School Interview Checklist to ensure you don't overlook any critical aspects.
We suggest interviewing several flight schools before making a final decision, as there may be numerous options in your local area.
We have a four-stage Instrument Rating Training Timeline
In Stage 1, we focus on developing and refining your instrument flying skills, while Stage 2 covers using navigation equipment. Stage 3 emphasizes flying instrument approaches, and in Stage 4, we bring everything together to prepare you for transitioning to continue your training in a real airplane.
How many hours does it take to get your instrument rating?
Aeronautical Experience Required by the FAA, Part 61
Once I have my instrument rating, how often are proficiency checks required?
For Part 61, as long as you stay active flying in instrument conditions and meet the Instrument Currency requirements, you just need a Flight Review every two years. For currency and proficiency read our post on this subject.