Instrument Rating

Instrument Rating Syllabus
Athlos Aviation – KOMA

Course Overview

The Instrument Rating course is designed to train pilots in the procedures and techniques necessary for operating aircraft solely by reference to instruments. The syllabus follows FAA requirements under Part 61 and Part 141 and ensures competency in instrument flight operations.

Prerequisites:

• Private Pilot Certificate (PPL)

• Minimum 50 hours cross-country Pilot-in-Command (PIC) time (Part 61)

• FAA Medical Certificate (3rd Class or higher)

• English proficiency

Course Structure

The course consists of ground training, simulator sessions, and flight training, with a final stage check and FAA check ride.

Phase 1: Introduction to Instrument Flight

Ground Training (10 hours)

• Introduction to IFR operations & regulations

• Instrument flight principles and human factors

• Aircraft control using instruments

• Instrument scan techniques

• ATC system and IFR clearances

Flight Training (8 hours)

• Basic instrument maneuvers (straight-and-level, climbs, descents, turns)

• Unusual attitude recovery

• VOR, NDB, and GPS navigation

• Holding procedures

• Introduction to ATC communications

Phase 2: Instrument Navigation and Approaches

Ground Training (15 hours)

• IFR navigation systems (VOR, ILS, RNAV)

• Weather theory and IFR weather interpretation

• IFR charts, approach plates, and procedures

• Lost communication procedures

• Holding entries and techniques

Flight Training (12 hours)

• Enroute IFR procedures

• Holding pattern entries and execution

• Precision and non-precision approaches (ILS, RNAV, VOR, LOC)

• Missed approach and go-around procedures

• IFR cross-country flight

Phase 3: IFR Cross-Country and Emergency Procedures

Ground Training (10 hours)

• IFR flight planning and alternate requirements

• Emergency procedures and abnormal situations

• Practical test preparation and oral exam guide

• Scenario-based IFR decision making

Flight Training (10 hours)

• IFR cross-country flight (250 NM minimum)

• Approach proficiency under different conditions

• Partial panel operations

• System failures and emergency procedures

• Stage check and mock check ride

Final Stage: Check Ride Preparation

• Ground Review (5 hours) – Oral exam preparation

• Flight Review (5 hours) – Check ride maneuvers, full procedures

• End-of-Course Check Ride – FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)

Total Minimum Hours:

• Ground Instruction: 40 hours

• Flight Training: 40 hours

• Simulator (if applicable): Up to 20 hours can be credited

Completion Standards:

• Meet ACS standards for instrument flight proficiency

• Pass the FAA knowledge exam

• Successfully complete the FAA check ride

Additional Notes:

• Students must maintain a flight training log

• Weather minimums may affect flight scheduling

• Extra hours may be required based on individual progress

This syllabus ensures structured and effective training for obtaining an instrument rating, balancing theory with practical application.