What is Instrument Training?

Instrument training involves learning to rely solely on aircraft flight instruments for navigation, compared to flying with visual reference to the ground.

When Should I Complete My Instrument Training?
If you are following our Career Program, you will run your Instrument and Commercial Courses together to save you time and money. Since 10 hours of instrument training are required to satisfy the aeronautical experience requirements of the Commercial Helicopter Pilot license, it only makes sense for the two courses to coincide with each other.

Are Professional Pilots Required to Hold An Instrument Rating?

The short answer is no. However, insurance companies and your future employer know that instrument rated pilots are generally safer pilots. For this reason, holding an instrument rating can only stengthen your résumé.

What About Flight Simulators?

A maximum of 20 hours may be performed in a flight simulator, at reduced cost, if receiving training from an authorized instructor in an FAA approved flight simulator.

What are the FAA's Flight Training Requirements for an Instrument Rating?

• 50 hours of cross-country flight time as Pilot In Command (PIC)

• 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time, which must include:
    - 15 hours of instrument flight training from an authorized instructor in helicopters
    - 3 hours of flight training within 60 days before your "check ride"

• One 100 nautical mile cross-country flight, which must include:
    - An instrument approach at each airport
    - Three different kinds of approaches with the use of navigation systems

How Long is the Instrument Course?
The length of time required to complete the Instrument Course largely depends on your availability. If a full schedule is maintained, the course can be completed within 4-6 weeks. Students generally will finish at the FAA minimum requirements.

What Will I Have to Do?

• Hold either an FAA Private or Commercial Helicopter Pilot license
• Obtain at least a third class medical certificate
• Complete Epic's ground school and/or a home study course
• Log sufficient flight training
• Pass an FAA knowledge test
• Pass an FAA oral and flight test (also known as the “check ride”)