Cirrus introduces new instrument rating program

Cirrus expanded its Cirrus Approach Flight Training curriculum with the new Cirrus Instrument Rating Program. The Instrument Rating Program was designed by Cirrus Instructor Pilots for pilots interested in obtaining an Instrument Rating in a Cirrus aircraft. The program combines self-study content with in-person flight training.

Zean Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus commented: “The Cirrus Instrument Rating Program represents our commitment to safety and growing the Personal Aviation industry. To date, Cirrus Approach has over 25,000 users who have completed 33,000 courses. Cirrus is continuously growing its flight training capabilities as an investment to our owners and their lifetime of aircraft ownership.”

Pilot and personal aviation advancement

The Cirrus Instrument Rating Program now offers owners a clear training progression to maximize Cirrus aircraft use, enabling them to fly more frequently and in a wider range of weather and terrain. The Cirrus Instrument Rating Program emphasizes safe best practices for pilots operating Cirrus aircraft.

Instrument rating program structure

The Cirrus Instrument Rating Program includes three segments – Flight Lessons, Knowledge Test Prep and Supplemental Lessons – all designed to offer the student and instructor maximum flexibility while providing high levels of support along the way. The three segments include:

• Flight Lessons – Cirrus Flight Lessons serve as the core of the program and can be adapted to match the student’s needs, whether you are graduating from the Private Pilot Program or are a seasoned pilot.
• Knowledge Test Prep – The Knowledge Test Prep is a new functionality added to the Cirrus Approach Learning Platform designed to help students pass the FAA Written Exam.
• Supplemental Lessons – The Supplemental Lessons are optional and are intended to be used by students who are starting their Instrument Rating immediately after earning their Private Pilot License. These lessons are structured training events designed to help less experienced students accumulate the necessary flight hours while developing their flight skills.

Enrollment, duration and cost

Students can enroll in the Instrument Rating Program through Cirrus Approach and then will need to locate a nearby Cirrus Training Center to schedule their in-person flight lessons. The course can be tailored to the student’s experience level, so the total time needed to complete the program varies from one to four months. The course materials start at $950 and do not include instructor rates, Cirrus aircraft rental fees, or the cost of fuel.