65 clock hours (35 flight, 30 ground)
Completion Time: 5 weeks
Course Objectives
This course is designed for a student who has a helicopter rating but is not Instrument-rated. During the course, he or she will learn how to navigate and operate the helicopter competently in less than Visual Flight Rules (VFR) weather conditions and in accordance with Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) procedures. He or she will acquire the skills and knowledge required to successfully complete the Instrument rating practical test administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The helicopter Instrument rating is required by an increasing number of commercial helicopter operators. Holding an Instrument rating increases a pilot’s hiring potential. Additionally, this course is a prerequisite for enrollment in the Instrument Instructor Rating Course.
Course Description
During the flight component of the course, the student will learn how to operate the helicopter safely in conditions of restricted visibility. He or she will learn how to perform various instrument approaches to a high level of skill, and otherwise operate within the IFR environment.
During the ground component of the course, the student will study aircraft flight instruments and navigation equipment, IFR flight planning, IFR regulations, and other topics pertinent to the safe conduct of IFR flight.
This course includes three stages as outlined in Quantum Helicopters Instrument Rating Syllabus. Each stage must be completed successfully before the student may proceed to the next stage. Successful completion is determined by oral evaluation, written testing and a flight skills evaluation, administered by the Chief Flight Instructor, Assistant Chief Flight Instructor or a check pilot. Upon successful completion of the final stage, the student will be considered eligible for the Instrument rating FAA practical test.
Course Outline and Hours
- Dual IFR Flight Training 35
- Ground Training 30
TOTAL 65