ACCELERATED IFR TRAINING
Train in your plane and be a safe IFR pilot in as few as 7 days...

I offer an accelerated 7 Day IFR rating program for the owner/pilot that wants to fly IFR to maximize the utilization of their airplane. My typical client flies a high performance airplane to increase productivity and reduce travel time. They need to get to their destination safely and reliably.

My IFR course is not designed for the weekend pilot or as a backup plan to be used "in case I fly into the clouds." Instead, I have put together an intensive, total immersion course for a select group of pilots.

This program is for individuals willing to be trained and held to professional pilot standards. It is not a "guaranteed, we come to you, examiner on staff" type of course.

I have spent a career training airline and corporate pilots. Now, I'm offering professional level training to the general aviation pilot. I will work with you every day, 6 hours a day, until you are a safe, competent instrument pilot. Since I train my students in the practical aspects of instrument flying, 95% of my clients complete the program in 7 days. Some take an extra day or two to earn the rating. I always leave extra time in my schedule to accommodate these students. My goal isn't speed, it's giving you quality training. I don't waste your time on NDB procedures, DME Arc's or intersection holds. They just don't happen that often in actual IFR. I don't try to trick you with obscure FAR's or useless weather facts. Instead of tedious repetition of maneuvers, I advocate scenario based training. Every flight will be flown with specific training goals in mind. One scenario based flight may entail flying an approach in mountainous terrain, while the next flight integrates the autopilot during a GPS WAAS approach. I think your IFR training should be tailored toward the specific equipment in your airplane. In other words, I am going to teach you to fly single pilot IFR safely in your airplane using your equipment in an efficient, timely manner. My primary goal is to make you a safe IFR pilot, not just another IFR rated pilot.

Over the years, I have re-trained hundreds of pilots struggling with outdated procedures and techniques. Most of these procedures are still taught because, "That's the way it's always been taught.” However, new airplanes and avionics are rapidly changing the way we fly IFR. I offer current, progressive training for the pilot interested in flying instruments using today's technology.

GROUND SCHOOL

Starting on Day 1, we review weather including how to get a good briefing and how to "read" weather while en-route. Showing you what weather signs to look for while flying is where my experience really pays off for you. As an A&P mechanic, I delve deeper into your airplane's systems than other instructors. I review every system in your airplane as it relates to IFR flying. You will learn about approach plates, (both electronic and paper) and en-route charts. My syllabus will be emailed to you several weeks prior to training. It will also prepare you to pass the oral exam.

ELITE FULL SIZE SIMULATOR

Next we move into a full size simulator. I'll teach you a proper scan and all the procedures you are likely to encounter flying single pilot IFR in your airplane. This training is based on the training model used at major and regional airlines. We start with a pre flight briefing and then learn all the procedures and flows in the simulator. After 20 hours in the simulator, we move into your airplane. Everything you have learned in the simulator directly transfers to the airplane. By the time we get into the airplane, all the IFR procedures will have become second nature. The simulator is so good; it is approved by the FAA for part of your IFR checkride. It is the fastest, safest and most cost effective way to earn your instrument rating. It also is the most effective way to retain critical procedures.

THE AIRPLANE & IFR CROSS COUNTRY FLIGHTS

Although it's a poor classroom, this is where all your training pays off. We will review all the procedures and maneuvers in the FAA's Practical test Procedures. We'll fly numerous actual cross country flights to put your knowledge to the test. Each day, we will depart Beaufort in the morning and fly cross countries into places like Atlanta's Class B, Ashville's mountains or the Bahamas non radar environment. (Of course, the selection of destinations depends on the speed of your airplane.) During this phase of training, expect 3-4 hours of cross country flights per day. We will brush up on any marginal performance uncovered during simulator training. You will learn to use all of the avionics in the airplane. You will talk to ATC like a professional pilot. You will become competent to fly your airplane in the IFR environment.

CHECKRIDE

After 7 days, 95% of my students are prepared for the examiner. If you are not ready, my schedule can easily accommodate those students who need a day or two extra training. My main goal is graduating a safe IFR pilot, not getting you done in 7 days. I will not sign you off for the FAA check-ride until we both are convinced you can fly IFR safely. I don't have anyone "on staff" or guarantee you will pass the checkride. Remember, this is a test. I don't want you flying your family, friends, or employees in IFR conditions if you are not comfortable "in the system."

QUESTIONS?

I have an FAQ section which may answer most of your questions, but these are the most common about this program:

How long should I plan on training with you? The average and current private pilot should plan on 7 days of training. Some students break their training into 2 sessions a few weeks apart.

Will other students be training at the same time? No, but I may have other students training after you.

Do you have an airplane I can rent? No.

How much time will I get in my plane and/or the simulator? We will train until you are a competent instrument pilot. The minimum time the FAA requires is 40 hours of hood or instrument/simulator time. The average pilot can absorb approximately 3 hours of ground school and 5 hours of simulator or flight time per day.

What flying background do I need? The students that get the most out of the course have flown their airplanes for at least 100 hours of cross country using flight following and have a good grasp of basic fundamentals as a private pilot. You must have logged at least 12 hours of hood time prior to starting the course. This IFR program is not a good way to get back into flying after a long hiatus nor is it a good way to get to know a new airplane. The most successful students have flown their airplanes for over 50 hours PIC.

Do I need to pass the Knowledge Test before training? Yes.

FEE: $5900 for the 7 day IFR Course with the Knowledge Test passed. This includes unlimited hours in the simulator, ground school, and 15 hours in your airplane. It does not include the FAA examiner's fee. I charge $785 per day for any extra days required.

Courses start on a mutually agreeable time. I am normally booked six weeks out. Call or email for training details. (843) 521-9412 or dscarmody@safepilot.com.

Click here to schedule.

Call my office 843 521 9412 with questions. I do not interrupt class to talk on the phone so please leave a message and I will call you back at the first break. Email is the fastest way to communicate with me.