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Typically, helicopter flights are performed under visual flight rules (VFR), but the ability to use all the helicopter’s equipment and perform instrument flights can significantly enhance the pilot’s flying skills as well as the level of aviation safety in general.
Some helicopters are certified for instrument flight operations, which allow performing flights in almost all weather conditions, especially in regions with unfavorable climate conditions. The achievement of the Instrument Rating will make you a more qualified and safe pilot as well as improve your competitiveness in the labor market.
In order to obtain the Helicopter Instrument Rating, you need to complete following requirements:
Minimum of a private helicopter pilot license
At least 50 hours of cross-country flights, at least 10 hours of which were performed in a helicopter
At least 40 hours of instrument flights (real or simulated), at least 15 hours of which were performed with an instructor under the instrument rating training program
At least 3 hours of training flights with an instructor during last 60 days before the examination
One cross-country flight with an instructor for a distance more than 100 miles, performing three landings in different airports, and using three different types of the instrument approach
At the end of the course our graduate receives an additional instrument rating to his or her private or commercial pilot license, which allows performing flights in adverse weather conditions and/or in accordance with the instrument flight rules.
Depending upon your current experience and flight time, the completion of the instrument-rating course can take from 15 to 40 flight hours.