Instrument Rating (IR) – Helicopter
Earn Your Instrument Rating for Helicopters with Aeroluxe Aviation
Expand Your Helicopter Pilot Capabilities
Obtaining an Instrument Rating (IR) – Helicopter Add-On enhances your piloting skills, enabling you to operate safely in low-visibility conditions by relying solely on your aircraft’s instruments. This rating is essential for pilots aiming to conduct flights under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) in helicopters. Aeroluxe is committed to creating excellent pilots, with minimal frustration. Full time helicopter students can complete an Instrument Rating in less than 30 Days.
Aeronautical Requirements
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under 14 CFR § 61.65, the following are the requirements for adding an instrument rating to your helicopter pilot certificate:
Eligibility Requirements
Flight Experience Requirements
Recent Flight Experience
Ground Training and Testing
Eligibility Requirements
- Pilot Certificate: Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate with a rotorcraft-helicopter rating.
- Medical Certificate: Possess a valid third-class medical certificate.
- Language Proficiency: Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
Flight Experience Requirements
- Cross-Country Flight Time: Accumulate at least 50 hours of cross-country flight time as Pilot-in-Command (PIC), with a minimum of 10 hours in helicopters.
- Instrument Flight Training: Complete 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time, including:
- At least 15 hours of instrument flight training with an authorized instructor in helicopters.
- A cross-country flight under IFR with an authorized instructor, consisting of:
- A flight of 100 nautical miles along airways or directed by ATC.
- An instrument approach at each airport.
- Three different kinds of approaches using navigation systems.
Recent Flight Experience
- Obtain 3 hours of instrument flight training in a helicopter with an authorized instructor within 2 calendar months before the practical test.
Ground Training and Testing
- Ground School: Receive instruction on IFR regulations, procedures, navigation, and systems.
- Knowledge Test: Pass the FAA Instrument Rating – Helicopter knowledge test.
Program Cost & Training Breakdown
At Aeroluxe Aviation, we provide transparent pricing based on the updated rates:
- Dual Flight Training: $650 per hour (R44 rental at $585/hr + Instructor fee at $65/hr)
- Ground Instruction: $65 per hour
- Solo Flight Time: $585 per hour (R44 rental)
Below is an estimated cost breakdown based on FAA minimum requirements:
| Training Component | Estimated Hours | Rate | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Flight Training | 15 hours | $650/hr | $9,750 |
| Ground Instruction | 20 hours | $65/hr | $1,300 |
| Solo Flight Time | 25 hours | $585/hr | $14,625 |
| FAA Knowledge Test Fee | N/A | N/A | $175 |
| FAA Checkride Fee | N/A | N/A | $800 |
| Books & Materials | N/A | N/A | $300 |
| Total Estimated Cost | N/A | — | $26,950 |
Note: Actual costs may vary based on individual training needs and proficiency.
Why Choose Aeroluxe Aviation?
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from seasoned professionals with extensive IFR experience.
- Modern Fleet: Train in well-maintained, IFR-equipped helicopters.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Engage in scenario-based training that mirrors real-world IFR operations.
- Flexible Scheduling: We accommodate your availability to ensure a convenient training experience.
Elevate your helicopter piloting skills with Aeroluxe Aviation’s Instrument Rating Add-On program. Contact us today to begin your journey toward advanced rotorcraft operations!