Instrument Rating in Chicago: Why Local Pilots Need It

Chicago is an incredible place to fly… but not always an easy one. Between lake-effect weather, low visibility, busy airspace, and unpredictable winters — pilots here need more than basic visual skills. That’s where an Instrument Rating (IR) makes a huge difference.

This guide explains why Chicago pilots should add an Instrument Rating and what the training involves.

What Is an Instrument Rating?

An Instrument Rating allows pilots to:

• Fly in clouds, fog, and low visibility

• Navigate using instruments instead of visual references

• Enter controlled airspace used by airlines and commercial traffic

It is the most valuable add-on after your Private Pilot License.

Why Chicago Pilots Need an Instrument Rating

Chicago weather is known for:

• Rapid visibility changes

• Fog off Lake Michigan

• Snow and low ceilings in winter

• Busy Class B airspace near O’Hare and Midway

With an IR, you can:

✔ Fly more days of the year

✔ Improve safety in unexpected weather

✔ Access more airports and air routes

✔ Build skills for commercial aviation

This upgrade keeps you flying instead of waiting on the ground.

What You’ll Learn During Training

Instrument Rating training includes:

• IFR communications

• Precision and non-precision approaches

• Holding patterns and procedures

• Departure and arrival procedures

• GPS and ILS operations

• Risk and workload management

Simulators speed up skill building and save money along the way.

How Long Does It Take in Chicago?

Most students finish in:

📌 2–4 months(flying multiple lessons per week)

Winter flying delays are reduced because simulators support consistent progress.

How Much Does an Instrument Rating Cost?

Chicago-area pricing typically falls between:

👉 $10,000–$15,000

Costs vary depending on:

• Frequency of lessons

• How much simulator time is used

• Previous flight experience

D14 Aviation helps students plan training efficiently to keep costs down.

Where Chicago Pilots Train for an Instrument Rating

D14 Aviation offers IR training at two convenient airports:

📍 Bult Field — Monee, IL

📍 Greater Kankakee Airport — Kankakee, IL

Easy access from: Chicago • Naperville • Tinley Park • Joliet • Orland Park

Career Opportunities After Your IR

If you’re pursuing professional flying, an Instrument Rating is mandatory for:

• Commercial Pilot License

• Multi-Engine training

• Airline pathway programs

Nearly every aviation employer requires it.

Ready to Start Your Instrument Rating?

Begin your upgrade with an intro meeting or Discovery Flight.

📞 Call: 888-435-9314 (888-I FLY D14)

✈️ D14 Aviation — Flight School in Chicago

🔴 Start Instrument Training Today