When to Start Instrument Training

[Rex47]

At what time or stage should the private pilot start the instrument training? I am starting at 100 hours as I have been advised that the rating will make me a better overall pilot. I read where others suggest having many more hours before starting the training. Be advised that I am mature enough not to take the training lightly nor enter into situations that I feel are beyond my ability. Thanks.

[unknown user]

Getting your instrument rating at any point after your private is a GREAT idea. I know others may argue with me. The instrument rating opens up a whole new world in my opinion. Being a CFII, I see many pilots start their instrument training between 100 and 250 hours. I like training these folks because the are very excited about learning. Those that have been strictly VFR for hundreds or thousands of hours, seem to be doing mostly out of necessity (tired of getting stranded at an airport). The are not as excited about the new rating.

The biggest obstacle, if you start early, is you still have to obtain 50 hours of PIC x/c time. This can be combined with your instrument training as long as you emphasize this to your CFII.

Good luck.

[Todd]

Agree about getting it at some point. And fully agree with Scott's points. It certainly won't hurt anything other than your pocket book.

As far as when? Your instructor may tell you immediately after your private, and if he does you should ask him why. Maybe its to get him more hours towards his job at Delta or maybe its that it would be better to get it over with while you are still in a "study all the time" mentality and while a bunch of information is still fresh from instruction.

On the other hand, you may want to wait a few dozen hours until you have some practice sharpening your radio skills VFR and sharpening your ability to hold an altitude or heading (this is what I'm doing).

On the other hand, people tend to develop bad habits after they "graduate".

I think the answer is personal preference and different for everyone and you should pursue your rating when you feel good about doing it. I like Scott's comment about the student needing to be eager to learn it. Studying for it is far more difficult than the private so don't do it till you are mentally ready to devote alot of energy. After I got my private, I just wanted to enjoy flying for a few months. After awhile I got the bug for new challenges and am now "eager".

Perhaps you could buy the books and start preparing for the written.

Let us know what you decide and how it turns out!

[ghostrider20]

I would do about 25 hours of cross country time and practice your VOR skills etc. But if you know you are going to get your instrument rating get it after this time or ASAP. An instrument rating make you a complete pilot, in the sence you can use all the resources available to us pilots. Scud running, watching for towers, and other planes is no way to fly and enjoy it. Nothing is better then breaking out on top and having a nice worry free flight. Not only that but most GA accidents happen from VFR pilots flying into istrument condition. When I had a new intrument pilot get his rating I always advised them to set personal minimums for themselves and respect them. I would advice say a 500 foot ceiling and 3 miles vis. Shooting an ILS to 200 and 1/4 with my students in actual IMC is far differant then with the fogels. They have the comfort of the instructor.

[Rex47]

Scottd, Todd, and Ghostrider. Thanks for the advice. Got my instrument rating the first of September and I am glad I started on it soon after the private license.
The training was somewhat more demanding than the private license. Especially the radio work, holding, and ADF approaches.
I feel the training has made me a safer and better pilot, therefore I am pleased that I got the rating soon after the private license. I now get to fly more often. Besides, it is very satisfying to complete an actual approach.