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With the instrument rating, you are able to fly through clouds and when visibility is less than three miles. This rating allows you to fly on days when flying without the rating would not be possible. If you plan on using your pilot license for personal or business travel, the instrument rating is a must.
Throughout the instrument training you will also sharpen your flying skills. Most people find the training to be some of the most challenging and satisfying of their flying careers. While getting your Private license, you learn to fly by referencing the horizon and the outside world. With the instrument rating, you re-learn to fly by only looking at the instruments in the plane while following very precise flight procedures.
The instrument training takes about 35 flight hours for most people. An estimate of the training program follows:
Airplane rental for 35 hours $5,425
Simulator for 15 hours $525
Instruction for 80 hours $4,000
Written Test $150
Practical Test $500
Total $10,600