What is the process for obtaining an instrument rating?

In North Carolina, the process for getting an instrument rating for flying an aircraft includes completing an FAA medical exam, meeting specific pilot experience requirements, passing a knowledge test, and passing a flight test. First, an individual must obtain an FAA medical certificate before taking any parts of the instrument rating. This certificate must be kept up-to-date, and in some cases a special instrument rating medical exam may be required by the FAA. Next, the pilot must also meet certain experience requirements such as holding a valid private pilot certificate and logging at least 50 hours of cross-country flight as a pilot-in-command. The pilot must also have logged at least 40 hours of instrument flight time, which must include 15 hours of instrument flight training with an authorized instructor, one two-hour cross-country flight, and one instrument proficiency check with an instructor. The third requirement is for the pilot to pass a written knowledge test on the regulations, navigation, aircraft performance, and other related topics. This is a 60-question multiple choice test, which the pilot must pass with at least a 70% score. Finally, the pilot must pass a flight test, which must be completed with an FAA-designated examiner. The flight test includes a preflight evaluation and an in-flight evaluation which may cover instrument navigation, simulated instrument conditions, emergency operations, and other related tasks. Once the pilot passes the test, the instrument rating may be issued.

Related FAQs

What is the process for obtaining a flight instructor certificate?
How is air cargo regulated?
What are the regulations regarding aircraft maintenance records?
What are the regulations governing aircraft noise control?
What are the rules and regulations surrounding passengers, safety and liability?
What are the regulations regarding aircraft maintenance manuals?
What are the requirements for aircraft maintenance technicians?
What are the requirements and procedures for an aircraft accident investigation?
What is the process for obtaining an aircraft maintenance engineer certificate?
What is the process for obtaining an international operations authorization?

What is the process for obtaining an instrument rating?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts