Becoming a helicopter pilot requires a lot of lessons and training, with hours of flight time that can take a while to build up. It can be difficult to see why you would make it harder on yourself by getting an instrument rating as well. But once you understand what instrument rating is, it’s easy to see why many helicopter pilots do just that. So, the question is, is instrument rating important to helicopter pilots? We explore the concept in depth below.

Employment

There are various benefits to having instrument rating, one of them being that it makes finding a job easier. A lot of helicopter positions insist that you have instrument rating to get the job. Having this rating will improve your chances of landing a job and open a lot of doors in the field.

Qualifications

Instrument rating improves not only your chances at getting a job but also your qualifications for a job. This increases your desirability and gives you a leg up on any pilot that doesn’t have the rating. It also often means you’ll receive more pay than pilots without these qualifications.

Safer Flying

Instrument rating isn’t just for looks; it’s a sign that you’re a better pilot and that you’re capable of flying in difficult conditions and bad weather. That knowledge can increase your safety on a trip.

Requirements

Now, this should answer any additional questions about whether instrument rating is important to helicopter pilots. Getting your instrument rating is going to take some extra work, but it’s only a bit more difficult than just going for your private pilot license. You will need 40 hours of flight time and 50 as pilot in command, plus at least one 100-mile flight and 3 hours of flight lessons. It culminates in a written, oral, and practical test.