Your Runway to IFR Mastery
Step by step, you’ll learn to file, fly, and finish flights safely in real-world IMC
Program Start & CFI Match
Meet with your Aspire CFII, align your goals and timeline, build your study plan, and set up your simulator (AATD) and flight schedule.
Core IFR Skills
Learn the building blocks: attitude instrument flying, partial panel, holds, intercepts, tracking, and basic navigation using VOR, GPS, and ILS systems.
Procedures & Approaches
Master IFR departure procedures, enroute clearances, STARs, and a full suite of approaches including ILS, LPV, LNAV, and VOR.
Simulator Integration
Train in our FAA-approved AATDs that replicate G1000 NXi and Cirrus Perspective avionics. Gain unlimited repetition in a safe, cost-effective environment.
Cross-Country IFR Flights
Plan and fly real-world IFR routes, file and communicate with ATC, and experience decision-making in the system under CFI supervision.
Checkride Preparation
Polish procedures, run mock orals, and complete proficiency flights so you’re sharp and confident for the practical test.
Choose Your Instrument Training Path
Estimated costs are based on certified private pilots with zero instrument experience, combining both aircraft and simulator time.
Actual totals vary by aircraft selection, fuel prices, and training pace. Pilots can train across multiple aircraft—using the Cherokee, Archer, and Cirrus—to balance cost and capability while meeting FAA instrument requirements.
Piper Cherokee
Piper Archer
Cirrus SR20
The Aspire Aviation Difference
Aspire’s FAA-approved simulators replicate the Garmin G1000 NXi and Cirrus Perspective cockpits in our fleet. This technology lets you train smarter, repeat complex procedures, reduce costs, and accelerate your path to checkride readiness.
You’ll progress faster, build lasting skills, and gain confidence in the same environment professional pilots use.
What You Can Do With an Instrument Rating?
An instrument rating unlocks freedom, safety, and professional pathways that a Private Pilot License alone cannot provide.
Fly in More Conditions
Operate legally and safely in clouds and reduced visibility.
Expand Travel Flexibility
Stay on schedule with the ability to launch and complete trips when VFR-only pilots are grounded.
Increase Safety Margin
Develop advanced weather decision-making, precision navigation, and stronger cockpit discipline.
Instrument Rating General Prerequisites
To pursue an Instrument Rating under FAA Part 61, every student must meet these standards:
- Certificate – Hold at least a Private Pilot License.
- Medical Certificate – Hold a valid FAA 3rd Class Medical or higher.
- Knowledge Test – Pass the FAA Instrument Rating Airman Knowledge Test (written exam).
- Flight Experience – Minimum of 50 hours cross-country PIC time and 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time (with at least 15 hours dual with a CFII).
- Practical Test – Successfully complete the instrument checkride (oral + flight test) with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE).
Aspire’s structured approach keeps you aligned with FAA requirements while building the real-world instrument proficiency you’ll use on every flight confidence to act as Pilot in Command.
Instrument Training Program FAQ
Does Instrument training make flying safer for recreational pilots?
Absolutely. Even if you don’t plan to fly in hard IMC regularly, instrument training sharpens your precision, improves weather decision-making, and prepares you for inadvertent IMC encounters.
How do I schedule my Instrument Training lessons?
Once enrolled, you’ll work with your CFII to build an IFR training plan. Lessons and simulator sessions are scheduled through Flight Circle at your convenience.
How much flight time is required for the Instrument Rating?
You must log at least 50 hours of cross-country PIC time and 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time, including a minimum of 15 hours with a CFII.
Can I use simulator time to reduce costs?
Yes. FAA regulations allow up to 20 hours in an approved AATD to count toward your 40-hour instrument requirement. Aspire’s simulators mirror our fleet avionics, making them a cost-effective and efficient way to train.
How often should I train to stay proficient during Instrument training?
At least 2–3 sessions per week is ideal. Longer gaps between lessons make it harder to retain procedures and typically increase total hours to checkride readiness.
What study materials will I need for Instrument training?
Your CFII will recommend IFR-specific resources, including approach plate binders, electronic flight bag apps, and prep materials for the written exam. We also integrate ground lessons into your training to keep you on track.
What should I bring to each lesson?
Bring your logbook, headset, government-issued photo ID, and current medical certificate. A kneeboard, sectional charts or EFB, and approach plates are strongly recommended. Closed-toe shoes are required for safety in and around the aircraft.
From VFR Limits to IFR Freedom
The Aspire Instrument Training Program takes you beyond the limits of fair-weather flying and gives you the confidence to operate in the IFR system. Training is built around precision flying, strong workload management, and real-world decision making so you can safely complete flights in a wide range of conditions.
Our simulators mirror the exact avionics of our fleet, allowing you to practice approaches and procedures with unlimited repetition before applying them in the aircraft. Aspire graduates leave better prepared, safer, and more versatile pilots.