Pilot training in Central Oklahoma is a great way to get your wings and start flying. But what about the additional costs associated with obtaining an instrument rating? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows you to begin working on instrument qualification right after you receive your private pilot certificate. This rating is essential for pilots who want to fly in conditions that reduce visibility, such as clouds, fog or haze. So, what does it take to get an instrument rating?The cost of obtaining an instrument rating will depend on the type of training you receive.
If you plan to fly a complex aircraft (one with retractable equipment, adjustable inclination propeller and fins) or a technically advanced aircraft, you should expect to pay more for this type of aircraft during training. Additionally, if you are pursuing a Professional Pilot degree, at least the last two flight courses must be taken in residence. This can add to the cost of training. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the cost of obtaining an instrument rating without compromising the effectiveness of your training. During your PPL training, if you recorded a flight time across the country while performing the functions of pilot-in-command with an authorized instructor, you can dedicate up to 45 hours of that time to evaluating your instrument.
You can also practice what you have learned on a simulator at home or on your school's training device. In addition, some large flight training companies and regional airlines now offer training reimbursements. This can help offset some of the costs associated with obtaining an instrument rating. Finally, don't be surprised if your instructor requires up to 80 hours of hands-on training (i.e., 40 two-hour lessons) to develop your teaching skills. This is because it is important not to concentrate pilot knowledge in a short period of time, since learning will not be applied to the transfer of training. In conclusion, obtaining an instrument rating after pilot training in Central Oklahoma can be expensive but there are ways to reduce the cost. By taking advantage of flight time across the country and using simulators and training devices at home or at school, you can save money while still getting the quality instruction you need.
