Solid Ground Aviation Fort Meade MD - Pilot standing outside plane with doors open

Instrument Rating

Fly with confidence in clouds and low visibility. Build precision, discipline, and the skills to operate in the IFR system.

Fly Beyond Clear Skies

Earn Your Instrument Rating

The Instrument Rating makes you a more precise, more capable, and safer pilot. It qualifies you to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR) and operate in weather that would ground a VFR-only pilot.

Training combines ground instruction on IFR procedures and weather with flight lessons in the aircraft, covering instrument approaches, holds, and cross-country flights in the IFR system, up to the FAA checkride.

Train in our Cessna 172M, N9961V: aircraft rental is $185/hour and flight instruction is $70/hour.

  • IFR Foundations: Learn instrument flight rules, charts, weather, and the IFR system.
  • Precision Flying: Fly by reference to instruments with accuracy and discipline.
  • Approaches and Procedures: Practice holds, approaches, and missed approaches.
  • Checkride Ready: Prepare for the FAA written test, oral exam, and practical test.
View from the training aircraft cockpit during an approach

Features

What Your Training Includes

  • One-on-one instruction with an FAA-certified instrument instructor
  • Ground instruction on IFR regulations, charts, weather, and procedures
  • Instrument approaches, holding patterns, and en route IFR navigation
  • Pre-brief and debrief with every lesson
  • Checkride preparation and mock oral exam

Advantages

Why Train With Solid Ground Aviation

  • A structured syllabus built around the FAA Airman Certification Standards
  • Flexible scheduling that fits around work and family
  • Optional simulator accelerators to build instrument skills at lower cost
Training aircraft taking off, front view

Ready to Fly in the Clouds?

Talk with our team about your goals and schedule, and find out how soon you can start your instrument training.

Investment

Instrument Rating Training Costs

Total cost depends on your pace, your experience, and how prepared you are for each lesson. Contact us for current rates and a personalized estimate.

Instrument Rating

  • Dedicated, FAA-certified instrument instructors
  • Clear syllabus from first lesson to checkride
  • Pair with the Instrument Rating Accelerator to save time and cost
Begin Your Flight Journey

Instrument Rating

Instrument Rating

Enroll Now

Fill out the form below and let's start learning!
We will get in touch with you and walk you through the next steps on getting started.

Instrument Rating

Earn your Instrument Rating with structured, aircraft-based flight training and experienced instructors at Solid Ground Aviation.

Ready to take the next step?

Let's Get Started Today!

Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, explore new opportunities, or simply have questions, we're here to help. Reach out to us and let's embark on this journey together.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is flight simulator training and how does it work?
It's hands-on flight practice in a high-fidelity simulator that replicates the controls, instruments, and visuals of an airplane. You can take off, navigate, and land without leaving the ground, practicing at your own pace and retrying maneuvers as needed. This allows for safe, realistic training, even in challenging conditions like crosswinds or low visibility. Learn more about our simulators.
Does simulator training count towards my pilot's license?
Yes! In two main ways.
  1. The FAA allows 2.5 hours to be counted towards the Private Pilot requirements, and 20 hours towards the Instrument rating requirements.
  2. The real benefit lies in reducing the amount of time required to train in the aircraft. Most students require more than the FAA minimum hours before they are ready for the checkride. Spending some of those extra hours in the simulator at a far lower cost will help save money and keep your training on track. See how the savings add up.
How much does simulator training cost?
Our simulator rents for $65/hr, and instruction is $60/hr.

When you compare that to the typical $170-$200+/hr cost of renting an aircraft, the value is clear. You get more learning, in less time, at a fraction of the cost. Compare the costs side-by-side.
How does simulator training save time compared to only flying an aircraft?
Simulators save you time by eliminating travel to practice areas, weather cancellations, and other ground-based delays. Every hour in the sim is dedicated to learning, which means you can master procedures faster and make your time in the aircraft more efficient. See a detailed time and cost breakdown.
Can I log instrument approaches in the simulator?
Yes! Our FAA approved AATDs allow you to log all your 61.57 instrument approach currency with or without an instructor. Same-day appointments are often available. You can see our simulator's FAA approval letter here.
Who can benefit from simulator training?
Pilots of all levels, from brand-new enthusiasts to experienced professionals. It's great for prospective pilots, student pilots, licensed pilots looking to stay sharp, and those practicing advanced or emergency procedures.
Are there prerequisites?
No prior flying experience is required. Beginners can start with an intro course, and experienced pilots can jump into advanced sessions. Solo use requires a pilot certificate and a short orientation. Check out our New Pilot Acelerator Course
I am training at a different flight school, can I train here too?
Absolutely. Many students use our simulator to reinforce skills learned elsewhere. You can train with you current instructor in our simulator or with one of our instructors to get a fresh perspective!
Do you offer flight lessons in aircraft?
We don't operate our own aircraft, by design. Instead, we partner with local flight schools to give you a smooth transition between simulator training and real-world flying.

Our instructors can also provide training in your personally owned aircraft, ensuring seamless continuity between your simulator sessions and in-aircraft experience.
How long is each session?
Most training sessions last between 1-3 hours. We can train longer, but we focus on quality training and find that this timeframe produces the best results.
When can I train?
Our training center is open from 7AM-10pm 7 days a week. We link you with an instructor that matches your availability to maximize convenience.
Got more any more questions? Contact Us
Flight Training Guide Ebook

New to Flight Training?

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Confused by FAA requirements? Want to master the basics before investing? Our free roadmap simplifies the flight training process, answers the most common student pilot questions, and shows you exactly how starting in a simulator can save you over $3,000 on your license.

Efficiency & Cost Effective

Aircraft rentals can be costly and aren’t always the most practical choice for effective training.

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