A helicopter instrument rating teaches the pilot to fly by referencing only the aircrafts instruments. It is an excellent skill-set for any helicopter pilot to possess and can add an additional margin of safety should the pilot inadvertently encounter clouds or low visibility.

For the commercial student, most employers require this rating, so future job prospects improve dramatically should you posees and instrument rating on your certfiicate.

Eligibility Requirements
The FAA has laid out a minimum set of requirements for individuals to be eligible for a instrument-helicopter rating:

• Hold at least a private helicopter pilot certificate OR be concurrently applying for a private pilot certificate

• Read, speak, write and understand the English language.

• Hold at least a 3rd Class Medical Certificate.

Experience Minimum Requirements
The FAA’s minimum requirements for flight training are as:

• 40 hours of simulated instrument flight, including:

  • 15 hours with a Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument (“dual” flight time), including:

  • A cross-country flight of 100 nautical miles along airways or by directed routing from an air traffic control facility with an instrument approach at each airport; and 3 different kinds of approaches with the use of navigation systems.

  • 3 hours of exam preparation

  • 10 hours as the only pilot in the helicopter (“solo” flight time)

• Pass FAA-administered written exam

• Pass FAA- administered oral and practical exams