Fog conditions lower visibility when you’re driving, riding your bike, and flying an airplane. The different fog conditions significantly impact flight operations. High elevated areas with high relative humidity with almost no wind lead to thicker and denser fog conditions. In such flight conditions looking out the window doesn’t help the pilot except during flight take-offs and landings. Earning an instrument rating helps pilots as it allows them to fly solely by reference to instruments. This rating equips pilots with the ability to fly in any weather conditions at any time of the day or night. Read ahead to find the reasons to earn an instrument rating in aviation and excel in the industry.
For flight safety
Pilots can add to their expertise and experience when they earn an instrument rating. No matter how good a pilot they are, one cannot predict unexpected weather conditions. Still, instrument rating and aircraft with IFR capabilities can understand more about the weather and its probable consequences. Also, if situations force a pilot to fly outside the visual flight rules (VFR), they can do so safely with instrument rating and without compromising passenger safety.
To become a flight instructor
One can get an instrument rating after completing a CFI flight training and achieving a private pilot license. They can then choose between completing the required flight hours to become a commercial pilot, attaining an IFR, and becoming a flight instructor. Getting an instrument rating makes you a safer pilot with lower insurance rates. Pilots with instrument ratings have an in-depth understanding of an aircraft’s different instruments, like altimeter and airspeed indicator. It makes the flight instruction process more detailed and gets you some added flight hours if you want to fly in any commercial capacity.
To broaden your scope as a commercial airline pilot
An instrument rating is an aviation certification that enables pilots to fly in any weather condition, cloudy or low visibility climate. IFR training includes 30 hours of before-and-after flight ground school, 50 hours of cross-country flights, and an instrument rating written examination. It is an excellent addition to the private pilot certificate as it allows you to go beyond the Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions. The IFR training prepares pilots for deviations, fuel stops or any other unexpected hazards on the way. Also, nowadays, most international airlines prefer pilots with instrument ratings and, consequently, higher pay.
To prevent mishaps
Pilots with instrument rating have more comprehensive knowledge of instruments in the aircraft and proper terminologies for accurate leading pilot reporting. IFR training prepares pilots to prevent miscommunication and unexpected limitations to their visibility. Pilots flying with instrument readings about altitude, airspeed, power changes, and more can attain improved accuracy. Aircraft with IFR can identify any unwanted or unexpected intrusion on the flight route and prevent collisions due to low visibility.
To notice and predict weather conditions
IFR training includes a heavy focus on weather theory, reporting and enables pilots to predict any abnormalities in weather conditions and prepare for safety during flight. The preparations include exercises to recognize thunderstorms, ice, and other atmospheric conditions. Instrument rating improves the accuracy of pilots and gives confidence in foggy and busy airspace.
Conclusion
Don’t think twice before you start training for instrument flight rating. It’ll be an added feather to your hat of achievements in the aviation industry. It prepares pilots to fly in bad weather with conviction.
