Instrument Rating Costs
Let’s break it down based on typical training in a Cessna 172:
- Aircraft rental (40 hrs to 50 hrs@ $170/hr): $6,800 / $8,500
- Flight instruction (40 hrs to 50 hrs@ $70/hr): $2,800 / $3,500
- Ground instruction (20 hrs @ $70/hr): $1,400
- Study materials, written exam, checkride: $1,000 - $2000
Total estimated cost: $12,000 - $15,400
You can lower this cost by using a flight simulator for some training time, which is FAA-approved up to a certain number of hours. Simulator time typically costs $40–$80/hour, making it a more affordable option for part of your training.
