Stay IFR-Sharp with Airline Pilots
Our instructors fly IFR professionally — domestic and international routes.
We teach the why behind each procedure, not just the how.
Currency sessions focus on safety and real-world proficiency, not just meeting minimums.
The procedures we teach are what we use professionally. They actually matter.
IFR Currency Session Pricing
Choose hourly for occasional practice. Choose bundles to save when you need more reps.
With Instructor
Airline pilot CFII guides you through approaches, holds, and procedures
Hourly = pilots who fly IFR regularly and need occasional practice.
Bundle = pilots rebuilding proficiency or prepping for an IPC.
Three Ways to Stay IFR Current
Choose the approach that fits your schedule and training goals. Click any option to see details.
IFR Currency Timeline
Choose your path based on when you last logged 6 approaches + holds
Find Your IFR Currency Path
Two questions. Personalized recommendation. Solo or dual — we'll match you with the right session.
Step 1: Am I Current?
14 CFR 61.57(c) - 6 approaches, holds, tracking
Step 2: How Sharp Am I?
Solo vs Dual instruction decision
IFR Currency Requirements Under 14 CFR 61.57
What counts toward instrument currency — and why most pilots' approaches don't
The Basic Requirements
To maintain instrument currency, complete these within the preceding 6 calendar months:
- ✓Six instrument approaches — diverse types recommended (ILS, RNAV, VOR)
- ✓Holding procedures and tasks — entries, timing, corrections
- ✓Intercepting and tracking courses — using navigational systems
Grace Period: If your currency lapses, you have an additional 6 months (total 12) to complete these requirements. After 12 months, an IPC is required.
The Catch: Why Your Approaches Might Not Count
Under 14 CFR 61.57(c)(3), an approach only counts if performed in actual IMC or under simulated conditions (view-limiting device) after the Final Approach Fix.
| Scenario | Details | Counts? | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| VFR Airport Flow | Break out before FAF, fly rest visually | ✗NO | You weren't in IMC or simulated IMC after the FAF. Approach doesn't count per 14 CFR 61.57(c)(3). |
| Actual IMC After FAF | You flew IMC at any point after the FAF | ✓YES | You were in actual IMC through the critical phase of the approach. This counts. |
| Safety Pilot + Hood | Wearing view-limiting device through entire approach (even in VFR) | ✓YES | Simulated IMC per 14 CFR 61.57(c)(3)(B). This counts toward currency. |
| FAA-Certified AATD | Fly 6 diverse approaches (ILS, RNAV, VOR) in simulator down to minimums | ✓YES | Simulated IMC conditions per 14 CFR 61.57(e). Every approach counts. |
| Same Approach, VMC | 6 RNAV approaches to home airport, break out early every time | ✗NO | If you break out before FAF, approaches don't count—even if you fly 10 of them. |
| FAA Safety WINGS | Diverse scenarios in AATD every 3 months (ILS, RNAV, VOR) down to minimums | ✓YES | Maintains both currency AND proficiency. This is the Gold Standard for IFR competence. |
Most Approaches Don't Count
Pilots file IFR for traffic separation — not actual IMC. Break out before the FAF? That approach doesn't count.
Every Approach Counts in Our AATD
In our FAA-certified simulator, you're always "in IMC." Full approach to minimums, every time. 14 CFR 61.57(e) approved.
Diverse approaches every 3 months + WINGS = Currency AND Proficiency
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BikesWhy Choose Aviator.NYC for IFR Currency?
Major Airline Pilot as Your Instructor
Your instructor flies jets professionally for major airlines—not a part-timer building hours. They bring real-world experience from busy airspace and actual IMC conditions.
Real-World Techniques—Not Just "Fly Approaches"
We don't wing it. Our team uses airline-style flows and structured techniques to sharpen your IFR skills fast—so you fly with purpose, not uncertainty.
FAA-Certified AATD That Outperforms Most Planes
Our G1000-powered simulator mimics the real panel—complete with GFC 700 autopilot, full nav database, and Jeppesen charts. Everything feels like your aircraft—minus weather delays.
Versatile Aircraft Options—From Pistons to King Air
Fly single-engine trainers, complex multi-engine aircraft, or the King Air 200—all without leaving Manhattan. Stay sharp, stay legal, stay ready.
Your Instructor Isn't Building Flight Hours.They're Major Airline Pilots.
Julian
ATP
Peter
ATP
Charles
ATP
Elijah
ATP
William
ATP
Ethan
ATP
Liam
Instructor Specialties
Active Airline Pilots, Not Hour-Builders
Your instructor isn't working toward an airline job—they're already flying 777s, A320s, and 737s. They teach because they love aviation, not because they need hours.
Same Mentor, First Lesson to Checkride
You won't rotate through different instructors. Train with one airline pilot who learns your learning style, tracks your progress, and stays in your corner throughout your journey.
Professional Skills for Personal Flying
Learn the same procedures, decision-making, and safety habits that airline pilots use every day. You're not just learning to fly—you're learning to fly well.
IFR Currency & Proficiency
Stay legal and sharp in NYC
Stay current in NYC by flying your 6 approaches, holds, and tracking on our FAA-certified AATD—solo or with an instrument instructor.
Essential IFR Guides & Resources
Master instrument procedures with these in-depth guides from airline pilots
Unlocking VNAV on Garmin G1000
Master vertical navigation on the G1000 — setup, descent planning, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Mastering Climb Gradients for IFR Departures
Calculate and fly departure climb gradients — obstacle clearance, aircraft performance, and FMS techniques.
Approach Setup and Brief
Professional approach briefing techniques used by airline pilots — what to brief, when to brief it.
RNAV Equipment Airworthiness (Part 2)
Understand RNAV equipment requirements — what you need to file /G and fly RNAV approaches legally.
Optimize Your Instrument Rating Training
Proven strategies to train efficiently — simulator vs aircraft, lesson planning, and checkride prep.
Get Started with IFR Currency Training
Tell us about your IFR currency status and we'll create a personalized training plan.