Table of Contents
Why do you need an instrument rating?
Pilots with an instrument rating are known to possess an improved level of accuracy because IFR training gives pilots an opportunity to learn more precise flying techniques in terms of power changes, pitch, heading, altitude, and airspeed.
Does IFR need rating?
A pilot must have an instrument rating in order to act as Pilot in Command of a flight below VFR weather minimums and/or under IFR. The rating is also required: When a commercial pilot is flying an airplane carrying passengers for hire on flights in excess of 50 nautical miles (90 km) or at night.
What are IFR conditions?
IFR means a ceiling less than 1,000 feet AGL and/or visibility less than three miles. Low IFR (LIFR) is a sub-category of IFR. VFR means a ceiling greater than 3,000 feet AGL and visibility greater than five miles. Marginal VFR (MVFR) is a sub- category of VFR.
What do you need to know about IFR equipment?
Every pilot who wants to fly under instrument flight rules must know the full set of IFR required equipment before they take flight. Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to remember what is required, but you should also know about IFR inspection requirements and a couple of the intricacies of what counts as eligible navigation and communication equipment.
Should you fly under VFR or IFR?
VFR pilots also lose the inherent safety and traffic avoidance callouts from air traffic control when flying under VFR, even if they are receiving Flight Following, which is a little extra albeit unguaranteed help as air traffic control watches you on radar. How to Choose Whether to Fly Under VFR or IFR?
Do airline pilots always fly IFR?
In the airlines, pilots will always fly IFR as required by the specific regulations that pertain to their operations, as well as their company’s operating procedures. However rare, some exemptions have been granted to airline movement on a case-by-case basis and there are some circumstances where movement under VFR may be preferred.
What is an Instrument Rating (IR)?
An Instrument Rating (IR) is a pilot rating you can add to your pilot certificate and is earned through intensive training focused on flying solely by reference to instruments, allowing you to fly under IFR.