Instrument Pilot Training

Tampa Bay Aviation’s instrument program will take any pilot to a level of safety and proficiency greater than that achieved through the private pilot program.

Plans and Pricing

An Instrument Rating (IR) will take safety and proficiency to the next level. Obtaining an instrument rating will make for a better pilot, reduce insurance premiums and is more marketable, as most aviation employers require their pilots to be instrument rated. The FAA minimum requirements for pilots under part 141 regulations are 35 hours of dual flight time and a long cross country flight over 250 nautical miles. Most students take advantage of the opportunity to obtain an instrument rating while building time towards a Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL). This rating also requires a minimum of a third class medical.

Cessna 172M

$8,080

Steam Gauge
Aircraft Rental (**35 hours)
Instruction (**35 hours)
Instrument Pilot CPC Kit
*FAA Check Ride
*FAA Written Exam
*Not paid to TBA.
** Estimates are based on FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate.

Cessna 172S G1000

$9,480

Aircraft Rental (**35 hours)
Instruction (**35 hours)
Instrument Pilot CPC Kit
*FAA Check Ride
*FAA Written Exam
*Not paid to TBA
** Estimates are based on FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate.

Cirrus SR22

$15,080

Technologically Advanced Aircraft
Aircraft Rental (**35 hours)
Instruction (**35 hours)
Cirrus Training Kit
*FAA Check Ride
*FAA Written Exam
*Not paid to TBA.
** Estimates are based on FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate.

What Our Students Are Saying

Don’t just take it from us, let our students do the talking!

“I absolutely CANNOT say enough good things about this operation! Just got my CFI from them, and had fun doing it (which I’m told is not a common phenomenon). It took minimal time, and the cost was about what you’d expect to pay at American Flyers, or ATP for CFI. However, the quality of training you will receive here will far exceed the standard of the “pilot mills”. Larry was my primary instructor but I also flew with Josh, Durant and Mike, all of whom were very knowledgeable and professional (in addition being “down to earth”, and cool). Look no further than these guys for all of your flight training needs! They’re awesome!!!” Damian W.

“Known to be the best Part 61 school for a reason!

Tampa Bay Aviation, located at Clearwater Airpark, boasts an amazing fleet of fixed wing and rotor craft aircraft,that are always kept in excellent condition, ready to fly at a moments notice. This flight school has the best team of CFIs I have ever trained with. Taking into account the excellent rentals rates for amazing quality aircraft, with highly experienced CFIs and staff, it is truly safe to say the TBA is one of the top Flight Schools in the nation!”

Jose A.

“Tampa Bay Aviation is an excellent operation. My son did his flight training here last summer and earned his Private Pilot License, and it inspired me to learn to fly as well. The instructors are excellent, the aircraft are up to date and the staff is friendly and helpful. We have recommended them to several friends and they have had excellent experiences as well. Overall, it is a great place to fly. i HIGHLY recommend it!” Eric M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to get a pilots license?

Be at least 17 years old.
Be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language.
Pass a required knowledge test.
Pass a required oral and practical flight test administered by a FAA designated examiner.
Hold either a student or sport pilot certificate.
Get a Third Class Medical Certificate.

How much time will it take?

IN THE AIR - The FAA requires a minimum of 40 Hours Total Flight Time with 20 Hours Flight Instruction. However, many students require more time. There's no rush and we won't push you to complete your training until you're ready. Our students average around 50 total hours of training.

ON THE GROUND - 35 Hours Ground Instruction

Questions About Flight Training?

Have questions about flight training? Contact us and someone will get right back to you.

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