Instrument Flight Rating (IFR) Ground School (Part of the Professional Aeronautics Certification - PAC)

The second semester of the PAC program builds on the Private Pilot License (PPL) by preparing students for the FAA Instrument Flight Rating (IFR). This rating enables pilots to legally operate in restricted visibility and weather conditions. Students will study advanced meteorology, airspace operations, and navigation techniques, focusing on instrument-based flight within the National Airspace System (NAS).

Award Type:

Certificate of Completion (qualifies student for FAA written exam; not a pilot license by itself)

Learning Outcomes:

Interpret weather systems and forecasts for IFR flight.
Apply instrument scanning techniques and procedures.
Navigate using advanced avionics, GPS, and ground-based systems.
Understand IFR charts, approach plates, and enroute procedures.
Apply FAA IFR regulations to real-world flying.

Educational Objective:

Vocational - prepares students for FAA certification and professional advancement in the aviation industry.

Tuition:

$1,000

Fees:

Flight Fees: $24,079
Exam Fees: $1,275
Other Fees (training aids, equipment, etc.): $1,055
Total Cost: $27,409

Length of Course:

17 weeks (Evening classes)
50+ clock hours (Lecture + simulator lab)

Course Outline:

Advanced Meteorology - 10 hours
IFR Systems and Procedures - 10 hours
Instrument Navigation & Avionics - 15 hours
Enroute Charts and Approach Procedures - 10 hours
IFR Regulations & Decision-Making - 5 hours

Admissions Requirements:

FAA Private Pilot License (PPL) required
FAA Medical Certificate (Class 3 or higher)
Valid government-issued photo ID
English proficiency

Attendance Requirements:

85% minimum attendance
Excused absences require instructor approval
More than two unexcused absences = removal from course
Incomplete work due within one week unless approved

Instructor Qualification:

Instructor is registered, certified, or licensed in the occupational area in which the state requires registration, certification or licensure for the occupational area in which the instructor is teaching.