The instrument rating allows a pilot to fly in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), for example when cloud layers obscure the pilot’s view of the ground. An instrument-rated pilot is able to fly and maintain situational awareness strictly by using instruments and avionics. This rating is one of the more complex ratings and is a major step toward earning more advanced licenses.
INSTRUMENT FLYING RATING (IFR)
PREREQUISITES
- Must hold a valid Private Pilot License or higher
TRANSPORT CANADA REQUIREMENTS
- 40 hours instrument time (20 of which may be completed in a simulator)
- 50 hours as Pilot in Command in cross-country flight time
- A 100 nautical miles cross country trip including 2 instrument approaches at 2 different airports
- Completion of a Transport Canada IFR written exam and an IFR practical flight test
