FAR Part 141 Approved for Examining Authority

Instrument Rating Program

Estimated Completion Time:

Ground School: 3.5 Weeks
Flight Training: 1-2 Months

Estimated Cost:

$20,000 (Part 141)
Cost varies under Part 61

Class Commitment:

Ground School: Monday-Thursday, 1pm-4pm
Flight Training: 3-5 lessons/week minimum

Bolster your flight training, gain experience, and open the doors to new flight possibilities
Are you a private pilot looking to enhance your skills and take your aviation career to new heights? Look no further than FLT Academy’s Part 141 Instrument Rating training program. As Utah’s largest and highest-rated flight school, FLT Academy offers a comprehensive and efficient path to obtaining your instrument rating.

FLT Academy’s FAR Part 141 Instrument Rating Program is approved for Examining Authority.  Train and test in-house with zero checkride delays!

Program Requirements

Minimum Completion Requirements

To enroll in the instrument rating program, you must hold a valid private pilot certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certificate serves as the foundation for your instrument training and demonstrates your proficiency in basic flight maneuvers, navigation, and aviation regulations.

Prior to starting your formal instrument flight training, you must complete the mandatory in-person ground school at FLT Academy. The ground school is designed to provide you with the theoretical knowledge necessary to understand instrument flight rules, instrument approaches, navigation procedures, and other essential topics related to instrument flying.

Successful completion of the instrument rating program requires dedication and commitment. The accelerated training program at FLT Academy requires a minimum of five flight lessons per week, while the less-accelerated program requires at least three lessons per week. Consistency in training is crucial to build upon your knowledge and skills, ensuring steady progress towards your instrument rating.

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Description

FLT Academy’s FAA-approved Part 141 Instrument Rating Program is the next essential step for private pilots who want to elevate their skills and expand their flying privileges. Whether you’re pursuing a career in aviation or looking to fly more confidently and safely in a wider range of weather conditions, this program is designed to make you proficient in instrument flight operations.

Why Earn an Instrument Rating?

An instrument rating allows you to legally fly in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), relying solely on cockpit instruments and radio navigation aids—an essential skill for professional pilots and a major safety upgrade for any aviator. The ability to fly in low-visibility conditions opens the door to more consistent flying, advanced training opportunities, and increased confidence behind the controls.

Structured and Efficient FAA Part 141 Curriculum

Unlike less structured Part 61 programs, FLT Academy’s Part 141 pathway provides an accelerated, yet highly organized training approach that aligns with the highest FAA standards. The program is designed to be completed in approximately three months, making it ideal for students who want to train efficiently without sacrificing quality or safety.

Ground School: Build a Solid Knowledge Base

Training begins with a required, in-person ground school held Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. over three and a half weeks. Taught by experienced instructors, this phase covers critical subjects such as:

  • Instrument flight rules and procedures

  • Instrument approach charts and navigation

  • ATC communications

  • IFR weather planning and interpretation

  • Federal aviation regulations (FARs)

Through lectures, discussions, and practical exercises, you’ll develop a deep understanding of instrument flight theory and prepare to pass the FAA written knowledge exam.

Flight Training: Hands-On IFR Experience

After completing ground school, students progress to flight training under the guidance of FLT Academy’s highly qualified instructors. You’ll practice real-world instrument flying skills in both aircraft and advanced flight simulators, focusing on:

  • IFR navigation and enroute procedures

  • Holding patterns and missed approaches

  • ILS, VOR, RNAV, and other approach types

  • Emergency procedures in IMC

  • Cross-country flight planning and execution under IFR

Our modern fleet is equipped with advanced avionics, ensuring you’re prepared for the demands of today’s aviation environment.

Why Choose FLT Academy?

As Utah’s leading flight school, FLT Academy combines industry expertise with a commitment to student success. Our Part 141 Instrument Rating Program is designed to deliver the best value in training by blending efficiency, structure, and top-tier instruction. Whether you’re advancing your training toward the commercial level or enhancing your safety as a private pilot, we’ll help you fly with confidence—even when the skies aren’t clear.

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PROGRAM BENEFITS

Our program offers a variety of benefits to students, including:

Part 141 Certification for Time and Cost Efficiency

FLT Academy’s Instrument Rating training program operates under Part 141 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). This certification offers numerous benefits, allowing you to save both time and money. Unlike the Part 61 requirements, Part 141 does not mandate 50 hours of Cross Country Pilot in Command time for instrument rating certification. This streamlined approach allows you to focus on the specific rating requirements, expediting your journey towards becoming an instrument pilot.

Timely Completion and Affordable Cost

We understand that your time and budget are valuable. With FLT Academy’s Part 141 Instrument Rating training program, you can expect to complete the course in approximately three months. Our program is designed to provide efficient and effective training, maximizing your progress as an instrument pilot. The cost of the program is approximately $20,000, which includes all training expenses such as flight time, fuel, FAA knowledge tests, checkrides, books/materials, and even a Bose aviation headset and iPad (optional, if already purchased). However, if you already own a headset or iPad, or prefer to provide your own, you have the option to opt-out and reduce the cost accordingly.

Experienced Flight Instructors and Top-Notch Facilities

At FLT Academy, we take pride in our team of experienced flight instructors who are dedicated to your success. Our instructors have extensive knowledge and real-world experience, ensuring that you receive the highest quality of flight training. Additionally, our top-notch facilities and flight training devices create a simulated instrument time environment that enhances your learning experience. You’ll have the opportunity to practice instrument approaches and hone your skills before taking them to the skies.

PROGRAM COMPARISON

When considering an instrument rating program, it’s essential to explore your options and choose the school that best fits your needs and goals. While there are several flight schools out there, FLT Academy’s Part 141 Instrument Rating Program stands out as the absolute best choice. Here’s a comprehensive comparison between FLT Academy and other schools to highlight the unique advantages of choosing FLT Academy:

Reputation and Size

FLT Academy proudly holds the title of Utah’s largest and highest-rated flight school. With an exceptional reputation in the aviation community, FLT Academy has garnered trust and recognition for its comprehensive training program and experienced instructors. When you choose FLT Academy, you’re choosing a school that has already proven its excellence in pilot training.

Fleet of Modern Aircraft

One of the key advantages of FLT Academy is its extensive fleet of modern aircraft. With a focus on safety and performance, FLT Academy’s fleet primarily consists of the Czech Sportcruiser, Diamond DA40, and Diamond DA20, all equipped with advanced avionics. Training on these state-of-the-art aircraft not only provides an immersive learning experience but also prepares you to handle the latest technology in the cockpit.

Part 141 Certification

FLT Academy’s Instrument Rating Program operates under Part 141 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). This certification sets FLT Academy apart from many other schools that operate under Part 61. By choosing FLT Academy, you benefit from a structured curriculum and training syllabus approved by the FAA, ensuring a streamlined and efficient training process. With Part 141, you can save time and money while receiving top-notch instruction.

Time and Cost Efficiency

FLT Academy’s Part 141 program is designed to optimize your time and budget. By eliminating the requirement of 50 hours of Cross-Country flight time typically needed for instrument rating certification under Part 61, FLT Academy enables you to focus on the specific training requirements. The program’s approximate three-month duration and estimated cost of around $20,000 (including essential training expenses, FAA knowledge tests, check rides, and even a Bose aviation headset and iPad, optional, if already purchased) make it an incredibly efficient and cost-effective option.

Simulated Instrument Time

 FLT Academy understands the importance of practical instrument training. With access to AATD flight simulators, you’ll have the opportunity to practice instrument approaches, navigation procedures, and emergency scenarios in a realistic and controlled environment. This simulated instrument time enhances your training experience, allowing for more effective learning and proficiency development.

Comprehensive Support

FLT Academy goes above and beyond to provide comprehensive support to its students. FLT Academy leaves no stone unturned in ensuring your success. The dedicated staff and resources available to you throughout the program contribute to an exceptional learning experience.

TESTIMONIALS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about FLT Academy's Instrument Rating program

Absolutely! The program is specifically designed for individuals who hold a private pilot certificate and want to obtain their instrument rating.

FLT Academy’s Part 141 certification means that the program adheres to a structured curriculum approved by the FAA. This certification offers a streamlined training process, allowing you to save time and money compared to other programs operating under Part 61.

On average, the program takes approximately three months to complete. However, the duration may vary depending on factors such as your availability, progress, and weather conditions.

The accelerated program requires a minimum of five flight lessons per week, while the less-accelerated program requires at least three lessons per week. The choice between the two programs depends on your availability and desired pace of training.

Yes, the ground school is mandatory and provides essential theoretical knowledge required for instrument flight operations. It covers topics such as instrument flight rules, navigation procedures, aviation regulations, and more.

No, the ground school cannot be opted out of. It ensures that all participants have a standardized foundation of knowledge before moving on to flight training.

The approximate cost of $14,000 includes all training expenses, such as flight time and fuel, FAA knowledge tests, check rides, books/materials, ground schools, flight bag essentials, and even a Bose aviation headset and iPad. However, you can opt out of the headset and/or iPad if you already own them.

FLT Academy strives to be transparent, and there are no hidden fees. The program cost is inclusive of the major training expenses. However, additional costs may include medical exams, FAA fees, and personal expenses.

FLT Academy’s Part 141 Instrument Course factors 27 hours of flight instruction to obtain this rating.

Yes, flight time from previous training may be credited toward the instrument rating requirements as long as it meets the FAA’s criteria and is approved by your flight instructor and the flight school.

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