INSTRUMENT RATING (IFR)
It allows you to fly into Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions. This includes weather and environments where you cannot maintain visual contact with the ground.
If your plan is to become an airline pilot, this is a requirement.
SINGLE OR MULTI-ENGINE?
While training towards the instrument rating can take place on both single (C182) and multi-engine (PA34) aircraft, the type of aircraft you do your flight test on determines the type of instrument rating you hold.
A Group 1 Instrument rating is issued if you pass your flight test on a multi-engine aircraft. This allows you to fly both single and multi-engine aircraft in IFR conditions.
A Group 3 Instrument rating is issued if you pass your flight test on a single-engine aircraft. This allows you to fly only single-engine aircraft in IFR.
We recommend anyone who is planning on flying as a career to take the Group 1 route, as it is more versatile.
INSTRUMENT RATING REQUIREMENTS
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Student must be at least 17 years of age and:
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Hold a PPL or higher,
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Hold a valid medical,
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Have 50hrs of Pilot in Command Cross Country time, and
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If pursuing a Group 1 rating, hold a multi-engine rating.
MINIMUM FLYING REQUIREMENTS
Transport Canada requires a minimum of 40hrs Instrument time, of which a maximum of 20h can be in the sim.
Please note that in-aircraft instrument time can only be accrued when the aircraft is in the air. As a result, the flying hours required are greater than the instrument hours required.
Both a Transport Canada Written Exam and Flight Test must be passed to obtain this rating.
As well, the actual time required is dependent on student proficiency and may be higher than the minimums.