ACCELERATED IFR TRAINING

Train in your plane and be a safe IFR pilot in as few as 7 days...

I offer an accelerated 7 Day IFR program where I work with you every day, 8 hours a day, until you are a safe, competent instrument pilot. Since I train my students in the practical aspects of instrument flying, 95% of my clients complete the program in 7 days. Some take an extra day or two to earn the rating. I always leave extra time in my schedule to accommodate these students. My goal isn’t speed, it’s giving you quality training. I don't waste your time on NDB procedures, DME Arc's or intersection holds. They just don't happen that often in actual IFR. I don’t try to trick you with obscure FAR’s or useless weather facts. Instead of tedious repetition of maneuvers, I advocate scenario based training. Every flight will be flown with specific training goals in mind. One scenario based flight may entail flying an approach in mountainous terrain. While the next flight concentrates on using the autopilot to integrate with the GPS during a WAAS approach. I think of your IFR training should be equipment specific to your airplane. In other words, I am going to teach you to fly single pilot IFR safely in your airplane using your equipment in as short an amount of time as possible. My primary goal is to make you a safe IFR pilot, not just another IFR rated pilot. Over the years, I have re-trained hundreds of pilots struggling with outdated procedures and techniques. Most of these procedures are still taught because, "That's the way it's always been taught.” However, new airplanes and avionics are rapidly changing the way we fly IFR. I offer current, progressive training for the pilot interested in flying instruments using today’s technology.

GROUND SCHOOL

Starting on Day 1, we review weather including how to get a good briefing and how to “read” weather while en-route. Showing you what weather signs to look for while flying is where my experience really pays off for you. As an A&P mechanic, I delve deeper into your airplane’s systems than other instructors. I review every system in your airplane. You will learn about approach plates, (both electronic and paper) and en-route charts. Training is conducted by pairing you with a similarly experienced pilot so that you attend ground school and simulator training together. In this way, each student benefits from expanded simulator time and ground school training while still receiving individual flight training. Most students get together after class to compare notes and quiz each other. The syllabus will be emailed to you several weeks prior to training. it will also prepare you to pass the oral exam.

SIMULATOR

Next we move into the simulator. I'll teach you a proper scan and all the procedures you are likely to encounter flying single pilot IFR. I have both a glass cockpit and a “classic round dial” simulator. All are Garmin GPS equipped and have autopilots.

By the time we get into your airplane, all the IFR procedures will have become second nature. The simulator is so good; it is approved by the FAA for part of the IFR checkride.

YOUR AIRPLANE

Although it's a poor classroom, this is where all your training pays off. We will review all the procedures and maneuvers in the FAA's Practical test Procedures. We'll fly actual scenario based cross country flights to put your knowledge to the test. We will brush up on any marginal performance uncovered during simulator training. You will learn to use all of the avionics in your airplane. You will become competent to fly your airplane in the IFR environment.

CHECKRIDE

After 7 days, 95% of my students are prepared for the examiner. If you are not ready, my schedule can easily accommodate those students who need a day or two extra training. My main goal is graduating a safe IFR pilot, not getting you done in 7 days. I will not sign you off for the FAA check-ride until we both are convinced you can fly IFR safely. I don't have anyone "on staff" or guarantee you will pass the checkride. Remember, this is a test. I don't want you flying your family, friends, or employees in IFR conditions if you are not comfortable “in the system.”

QUESTIONS?

I have an FAQ section which may answer most of your questions, but these are the most common about this program:

How long should I plan on training with you?The average and current private pilot should plan on 7 days of training. Some students break their training into 2 sessions a few weeks apart.

Will other students be training at the same time? Yes, training is conducted by pairing you with a similarly experienced pilot so that you attend ground school and simulator training together. In this way, each student benefits from expanded simulator time and ground school training while still receiving individual flight training. Most students get together after class to compare notes and quiz each other.

Do you have an airplane I can rent? Of course! My Alarus is available for just $750 extra!

How much time will I get in my plane and/or the simulator? We will train until you are a competent instrument pilot. The minimum time the FAA requires is 40 hours of hood or instrument/simulator time. The average pilot can absorb approximately 3 hours of ground school and 5 hours of simulator or flight time per day.

What flying background do I need? The students that get the most out of the course have flown their airplanes for at least 50 hours of cross country and have a good grasp of basic fundamentals as a private pilot. The IFR rating is not a good way to get back into flying after a long hiatus but it is a great way to get to know a new airplane.

Do I need to pass the Knowledge Test before training? Yes.

Can I take this course if I already have an IFR rating? This course is a perfect refresher for IFR rated pilots who haven’t flown "instruments" for a few years.

$5500 with the Knowledge Test passed. Extra days are $495 per day.

Courses start at your convenience and can be split into several sessions if necessary. I am normally booked 4 weeks out. Call or email for training details. (843) 521-9412 or dscarmody@safepilot.com. Click here to schedule.

Call my office 843 521 9412 with questions. I do not interrupt class to talk on the phone so please leave a message and I will call you back at the first break. Email is the fastest way to communicate with me.

Call Doug at 843.521.9412 or email at dscarmody@safepilot.com.