Trying to get your instrument rating but feel like progress is slow… or even stuck?
You’re not alone. Instrument training is where a lot of pilots hit serious roadblocks.
In this video, I’m going to break down 5 of the biggest obstacles holding pilots back—and more importantly, how you can overcome them and finish strong.
Hey, I’m Dan with MyStudentPilot.com. After training pilots for decades, I’ve seen exactly where students struggle—and how the successful ones push through. Let’s get right into it.
[Roadblock #1 – Falling Behind the Airplane]
One of the biggest issues in IFR training is getting behind the airplane.
Things happen fast—approaches, frequencies, altitudes—and if you’re reacting instead of anticipating, you’ll feel overwhelmed.
Fix:
Start thinking two steps ahead.
Brief your approach before you fly it. Know your altitudes, frequencies, and missed approach procedures before ATC calls you.
[Roadblock #2 – Weak Instrument Scan]
A poor instrument scan leads to altitude busts, heading drift, and frustration.
Fix:
Develop a consistent scan pattern—don’t fixate on one instrument.
Use a smooth cross-check and trust your instruments, not your senses. This is where simulators can really help sharpen your scan.
[Roadblock #3 – Lack of Ground Knowledge]
A lot of students try to “learn it in the airplane.” That’s expensive—and ineffective.
IFR is knowledge-heavy: weather, systems, procedures, regulations.
Fix:
Get ahead with ground study.
Use a solid ground school and review each lesson before your flight. Show up prepared, and your in-air time becomes much more productive.
[Roadblock #4 – Inconsistent Training]
Flying once every week or two? That’s a progress killer.
You forget procedures, lose your scan sharpness, and spend time relearning.
Fix:
Fly at least 2–3 times per week if possible.
Even better—combine aircraft lessons with simulator sessions to stay sharp and reduce cost.
[Roadblock #5 – Poor Approach Briefing & Organization]
IFR flying is all about staying organized.
If you’re scrambling for charts or unsure about the approach, you’ll fall behind fast.
Fix:
Always brief your approach the same way every time.
Have your charts ready, highlight key altitudes, and mentally walk through the procedure before you begin.
If you can avoid these 5 roadblocks, you’ll not only finish your instrument rating faster, but you’ll become a safer, more confident pilot.
Remember—IFR training isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being prepared, consistent, and ahead of the airplane.
If you found this helpful, hit like, subscribe, and check out MyStudentPilot.com for more tools to help you succeed in your flight training.
Want to get free money for your flight training? Visit our home page and join as a member today !
