Having an instrument rating added to your pilot certificate gives you the privilege to fly in all types of weather conditions, even restricting conditions such as IFR. After receiving this rating pilots will have flight proficiencies such as:

            * Flight by reference to instruments
            * Knowledge of navigation systems
            * Instrument approach procedures

            Instrument training is said to be the most complex rating a pilot will ever apply for but it is also the most satisfying because of the benefits of the rating. Imagine flight without altitude, distance or weather restrictions. As an instrument pilot, you will develop a greater knowledge for flying as well as experience. Some of the requirements for getting your IFR rating are:

            * 15 hours of instrument flight training in the aircraft rating sought for
            * 3 hours of instrument training within the last 60 days preceding the test
            * A x-country flight of at least 250 nm alone airways or ATC-direct routing

For more information about the IFR rating check out part §61.65 in the current FAR’s.