Not only will this course cover all of the FAA-mandated subject material for the Instrument Rating, we will also take an in-depth look at emerging technologies and their safety and operational implications. As with all Club ground schools there will be an emphasis on real-life situations and safety.

• Aerodynamics and Control (Real-Life IFR techniques)
• Engines and Structures (Hands-On in the Hangar)
• Instrumentation (All failure modes and partial panel)
• Weather Theory and Interpretation for IFR
• FAA Regulations for IFR
• IFR Air Traffic Control Procedures
• Flight Fitness and Medical Considerations for IFR
• Safety, Decision-Making, Judgment, and Common Errors for Instrument Pilots (Learn from others’ mistakes)
• Radio Communications (and radio failure procedures)
• IFR Navigation Fundamentals (Enroute, terminal and approach, including GPS and RNAV)
• Airspace and Security (including intercept procedures)
• Flight Planning and Chart Interpretation (including NOS and Jeppesen cartography differences)

FUN – INFORMATIVE

There are typically 10-15 students in this class. Most all have significant flying experience and are working on their instrument training. However, some students are just beginning. Learning is enhanced by the sharing of experiences by the more advanced flight students who have the unique perspective of a new “in training” instrument pilot.

Serious Training

This is a 30-hour course involving 10 3-hour classes plus about an equal amount of reading and exercise completion. It is thorough and both practical and theory based. However, given the enthusiasm of the students and instructors, it is typically a fun and rewarding experience for all!

Instructors

Your principal instructor for this course will be John Hunter. John is an experienced pilot and holds numerous FAA certifications. He has been teaching aviation courses for 35 years both at the Club and in an airline environment. Other instructors include the Club’s Chief Flight Instructor, George Scheer, and other experienced FAA certified instructors.

Where

All classes will be held in the air conditioned classroom at the Club’s hangar facility at the Raleigh Executive Jetport @ Sanford-Lee County north of Sanford, south of Apex. For driving instructions, see the Club’s website or call.

When

The classes are all taught in the evening at 7:00pm and are typically on Mondays. For specific dates, please see the ground school page.

Cost and Registration

Tuition cost will be $195 payable at the first class. Books and other required supplies will be about $80. This is a bargain compared to commercially available programs. Registration will be at the first class.
Just show up with your enthusiasm!

Read what others have said about this ground school

“Great class!  Very informative.  I certainly got my money’s worth.” Phillp C.  3/2011

“Thoroughly enjoyed the extra tips and relevant stories.” Dave P.  3/2011

“…I only wish my professors in college were as captivating.” Adam D.  3/2011

“I was pleased that I took this instead of one of the weekend courses. I look forward to taking the Commercial Course!” Steve C.  3/2010

“The instructor provided valuable real-world insights not found by reading.” Anon, 3/2010

“Great course.  Wonderful preparation for the FAA test.” Anon, 4/2008

“Excellent ground school!  I really enjoyed it.” Michael T.  4/2007

“…this class blows away the DVD course I took and is very important to safety, I believe.” Daniel R.  4/2006

“Excellent course!  …excellent instructor –he gives many different perspectives on the material.” Judith F.  4/2005

“Great class!  You ask for suggestions on how to make it better, but I can’t think of any.” Anon, 4/2004