Pilots or aspiring pilots know that favorable visual conditions aren’t always a given. Whether it’s rainy or cloudy weather, these are just some of the circumstances that can make it impossible for pilots to operate their planes. In fact, pilots can’t fly a plane during these weather conditions if they don’t have an instrument rating.
An instrument rating is a certification that allows a pilot to fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This certification means that a pilot can operate a plane in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), a weather condition, such as rainy or cloudy weather, that obscures a pilot’s vision during their flight. Despite low visibility weather, pilots with an instrument rating can fly planes safely with the help of flight instruments and air traffic control (ATC).
Getting an instrument rating requires additional training, more time in pilot school, and further knowledge of meteorology and flight instruments. This pursuit can take a lot of time, money, and effort. For this reason, many pilots may not feel that it’s necessary to pursue this certification, especially if they can fly without an instrument rating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
What Does it Mean to Fly Under VFR?
Before discussing why it’s essential for pilots to consider getting an instrument rating, it’s important to define what flying under VFR is.
Commercial and private pilots can fly even without an instrument rating. Pilots without this certification fly under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) in Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC). In simpler terms, a pilot without an instrument rating can only fly when the weather is nice and clear. Otherwise, during low visibility weather, these pilots don’t operate planes.
Pilots with no instrument rating may find themselves grounded more often. Additionally, pilots with no instrument rating may only be able to fly short distances because the weather can change during an international or overextended flight. When unexpected weather occurs, these pilots may not be able to fly safely.
Meanwhile, pilots with instrument rating qualifications will cover for these pilots, fly planes during low visibility conditions, or have more opportunities to fly long distances. Hence, if you don’t want your flight opportunities to decrease, you should consider getting an instrument rating. Aside from this, the other reasons why this certification is important for pilots are:
You Can Fly Safer
Training for an instrument rating can help you be a safer pilot. Unexpected weather changes can still occur even when you’re flying under VFR. Without proper knowledge of how to fly in terrible weather, accidents can happen. However, if you have an instrument rating, you can safely switch from VFR to IFR to reach your destination safely.
You Have Better Weather Predictions
The training and classes involved for an instrument rating certification heighten your knowledge of meteorology and involve flight training in low visibility weather conditions. Due to this, you can assess and predict weather conditions before and during flight. Your weather predictions can help you plan your flight, if you’ll be flying under VFR or IFR, or if you won’t be flying at all.
You Have Heightened Knowledge of Flight Instruments
Operating a plane under IFR relies heavily on instruments, adhering to a strict flight plan, and collaborating with ATC. For this reason, once you’re certified, you become well-versed with the mechanisms of your plane. This will help you fly better and act quickly during emergencies.
You Have Improved Flight Accuracy
Your training to get an instrument rating improves your flight accuracy due to your extended exposure to operating flight instruments. You gain flying techniques on stabilizing your plane when flying or landing. You also become better at using flight controls as you try and practice different instrument approaches when flying.
Your Flight Opportunities are Increased
As previously mentioned, pilots with an instrument rating can fly during low visibility conditions. However, it is recommended that you still assess whether the weather or other possible emergencies can affect your ability to fly and land a plane safely. If you have any doubts about your abilities, it is advised that you don’t fly.
You Become a Better Pilot
Your training and experience getting an instrument rating enable you to become a better pilot. You can predict weather conditions, helping you know when it’s safe to fly. You can also confidently fly with just the use of the instruments in front of you. In addition, with your improved accuracy and knowledge of instruments, you can control a plane with more precision than pilots who don’t have IFR training.
Getting an instrument rating certification is valuable training for pilots and aspiring pilots. With an instrument rating, they can expand their flying techniques, fly safer, and be more confident in their skills and knowledge. Therefore, pursuing this certification is not only good for the pilot but will also ensure a safer flight for their passengers.
