Instrument Rating Course - Online Ground School
In stock
Backordered
Why CFIIs Overwhelmingly Recommend Our Instrument Rating Course
The utility of an Instrument Rating is undeniable, but getting it is no cake walk. In fact, most pilots will tell you it's the most difficult rating to get. The IFR written exam is often called out as being by far the hardest of all (this point is often overexaggerated).
CFIIs want your IFR training to go smoothly, and that's why they recommend the Sporty's Instrument Rating Course more than any other. We have the most proven tools to help you pass all three tests required for your Instrument Rating (FAA knowledge test, checkride oral and checkride flight).
Interactive test prep
First, our interactive test prep will help reduce your anxiety when preparing for the written exam. Our study tools are the best in the business, and proven to help students get a great score with the least amount of hassle. We've incorporated feedback from thousands of pilots over the years, and continue to improve our built-in test prep to make it even better.
Real-world flying videos
Next, our real-world flying videos will prepare you for your IFR practical exam by showing you the exact procedures you'll need to demonstrate on your checkride. We give you an in-cockpit view of how to fly each procedure, and tips to help you avoid the common mistakes that can lead to a checkride bust. You’ll know what to expect on the oral portion of the exam as well, and understand the topics and questions you will likely be quizzed on. As a result, you'll be more prepared and less stressed on the day of your checkride.
Be a safe pilot
Finally (and most importantly), we'll teach you what it takes to be a safe, proficient and confident IFR pilot. This includes flight planning tips, preflight weather briefings, managing workload, flying smooth and safe approaches, ATC communications, and using critical in-cockpit tools like datalink weather and ForeFlight to better manage your IFR flights. You’ll learn how to make good in-flight decisions, and how to avoid the common traps that pilots encounter when flying IFR. These lessons will help you become a better IFR pilot.
What sets this Instrument Rating course apart from others?
We've invested a ton of money and development into our course delivery platform, making it the class of the industry. Our online platform works seamlessly with apps for iPad, iPhone, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. Progress automatically syncs between all formats so you can start a study session on your phone and finish on your laptop without missing a beat.
This is not a boring ground school. We put you in the cockpit for a real world look at what flying is all about. You’ll see the flight maneuvers from the left seat, and you’ll hear actual communications with air traffic control. Plus, each video segment includes helpful review notes and review quizzes to reinforce key concepts.
If you're stumped by a difficult subject, talk to the experienced flight instructors at Sporty's. We have a team of over 25 CFIs on staff at our flight school, training students every day just like you, so they can offer quick, helpful answers. Just click the Ask a CFI button to send a message.
When you complete the course, we’ll give you the flight instructor endorsement to take the written test—instantly! You can take this endorsement to the FAA testing center, and log it in your ForeFlight logbook. It's complete preparation for the FAA Knowledge Test.
When you buy a Sporty's course, you're gaining access to a training platform that's always up to date and always improving. We are continually adding new video segments to reflect new regulations and technology. We also refresh our FAA test question database regularly, so you don't study outdated topics. There's no additional fee or subscription to receive these updates.
2026 edition now available
4K video content
You'll find detailed video lessons focused on instrument training in vivid 4K, including instrument approaches, IFR cross-country procedures, weather flying, advanced avionics, and how to use the latest technology in the cockpit.
Video lesson summaries
We have also added video lesson summaries to provide a quick, structured review of each video's most important concepts. These summaries are ideal for easy review before a knowledge test or a flight lesson.
Interactive exercises
In these dynamic video segments, a certified flight instructor takes you directly into the cockpit to demonstrate key flight maneuvers—like a one-on- one lesson. You'll get a pilot's-eye view of how to properly execute essential maneuvers like steep turns, slow flight, and stalls.
ChatCFI
ChatCFI is your personal flight instructor, available 24/7. Have a question while watching a video or taking an FAA practice test? Get an instant, accurate answer from anywhere in the course.
FAA Test Prep Results Analysis and ACS Study Guide
After completing the FAA knowledge test, upload a picture of your test results, and Sporty's test analysis feature will identify and decode each ACS code listed on the report which represents the subjects of questions missed on the test.
Interactive written test prep
Custom Study Sessions
Study by topic and get plain English explanations from our team of instructors.
Test Prep Analytics
Track which areas need the most work, then study only questions you’ve missed.
Practice FAA Tests
Simulate the real exam with a timed test, using random questions from our database of 1,000+ questions.
AI: Aviation Intelligence
Only Sporty's offers AI tools specifically tailored to pilots' needs and trained on our extensive library of content—so you can trust the answers. Use ChatDPE℠, our virtual pilot examiner, for interactive study sessions that simulate the experience of the oral exam. Pair this with ChatFAR℠, our AI legal expert, to answer your most complicated regulation questions in plain English. Finally, ChatCFI is your personal online flight instructor, available 24/7 to answer questions or create custom study sessions.
Try the course for free
Not sure? Test out Sporty's course for free! The trial version includes interactive free FAA handbooks, free FAR/AIM, FAA practice tests and HD training videos. Download the app in these platforms:
iOS App
Android App
Online Demo
Real World IFR Training
Anyone can spend a weekend cramming and pass the FAA written test; safe IFR flying requires a whole lot more than just memorizing answers to a multiple choice test. Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course goes far beyond test prep, with real world video segments and pro tips for safer flying. We’ll help you pass that test—we guarantee it—but we’ll also teach you how to be a confident and polished instrument pilot. With free lifetime app updates and apps for all your devices you can train anywhere, anytime.
New AI Features:
ChatDPE℠: Our virtual pilot examiner creates interactive study sessions that simulate the experience of the oral exam portion of a Private Pilot practical test. Answer questions across all sections of the ACS, and your answers will be instantly critiqued for accuracy. If your answer is wrong or incomplete, you’ll learn more about the topic and be provided with targeted feedback.
ChatFAR℠: The Federal Aviation Regulations are complex by design, making them challenging for student pilots to navigate, but ChatFAR removes those barriers with a simple chat interface. Simply enter any question related to private pilot operations or flight training, and our AI legal expert will explain the applicable regulations in plain English.
Operate a Flight School? We can help.
Sporty's Learn to Fly Course provides a modern, comprehensive training solution for your flight school that is sure to increase enrollment and improve retention and performance.
Dynamic in-flight video
Interactive Written Test Prep
10 Reasons Why Pilots Prefer Sporty's Courses
- Nine formats, one price. We know you’re busy, so our course is available almost anywhere. Use our online learning platform for complete access to videos and quizzes anywhere you have an internet connection. There’s no software to install – just log in and start learning. Or use our dedicated mobile apps for iPad, iPhone, Android, Apple TV, and Roku, which allow you to download videos for offline viewing. Progress automatically syncs between all formats so you can start a study session on your phone and finish on your laptop without missing a beat.
- Get your written test endorsement. When you complete the course, we’ll give you the flight instructor endorsement to take the written test—instantly! You can take this endorsement to the FAA testing center, and log it in your ForeFlight logbook. It's complete preparation for the FAA Knowledge Test.
certificate
- Pass all your tests—guaranteed! Our course is so complete we guarantee you’ll pass all three tests: the written, oral and flight. Our video segments make complicated subjects like aerodynamics and weather easy to understand, so you’ll impress the examiner. Plus, our Airman Certification Standards Study Guide cross-references every required task to the videos, making it easy to review for the checkride.
- Dynamic in-flight video. Sporty’s courses are famous for their HD video and 3D animations. Not a boring ground school, we put you in the cockpit for a real world look at what flying is all about. You’ll see the flight maneuvers from the left seat, and you’ll hear actual communications with air traffic control. Plus, each video segment includes helpful review notes for efficient studying, and many also have review quizzes to reinforce key concepts.
- 27 fully-narrated HD maneuvers. In addition to the comprehensive video segments, Sporty’s Instrument Rating course also includes a detailed maneuvers guide. All 27 maneuvers you might be tested on are included, with a 3D animation of the maneuver, narrated procedures, common errors, and completion standards. It’s a great way to review for the checkride.
- Powerful test prep tools. You’ll ace the written test with our interactive tools. Create customized study sessions from the actual FAA test questions and see the right and wrong answers, plus plain English explanations written by our team of CFIs. Detailed analytics show you which areas need the most help, and allow you to study only the questions you’ve missed. Then, take a practice test that simulates the real knowledge exam you'll have to pass.
- Flight Instructor tracking. We make it easy for your instructor to follow your progress through the course, so you always stay in sync with your in-person lessons. Invite a CFI to see your practice test scores and review your video progress.
- Ask a CFI. If you're stumped by a difficult subject, talk to the experienced flight instructors at Sporty's. We have a team of over 25 CFIs on staff at our flight school, training students every day just like you, so they can offer quick, helpful answers. Just click the Ask a CFI button to send a message.
- Complete training syllabus. Research shows that pilots learn better when they use a high quality syllabus. We include a complete Training Course Outline as part of our course – the same one we use in our flight school. It includes detailed outlines for both ground and flight lessons. Think of it as a bridge between your at-home study and flight training.
- Free lifetime updates. When you buy a Sporty's course, you're gaining access to a training platform that's always up to date and always improving. We are continually adding new video segments to reflect new regulations and technology. We also refresh our FAA test question database regularly, so you don't study outdated topics. There's no additional fee or subscription to receive these updates - just log in and learn!
More powerful features:
- Download videos for offline viewing in the app or stream them with an internet connection.
- Automatic progress sync between all formats.
- Air Facts segments go beyond the textbook to make you a proficient pilot.
- Review notes and quick quizzes after most videos help you review your progress.
- Subtitled videos help students whose first language is not English.
- Connect to your ForeFlight logbook to log your written test endorsement.
- Earn FAA WINGS credit and save on your insurance.
- Automatic updates mean you learn the latest information.
Platform Partners
ATTENTION FLIGHT SCHOOLS
Want to use Sporty's courses in your flight school? We can help! Sign up to be a Sporty's Dealer and enjoy attractive wholesale pricing on many Sporty's training products. Our courses are used in dozens of flight schools every day, from small Part 61 schools to large Part 141-approved schools, and can improve both customer satisfaction and completion rates. Contact Mark Wiesenhahn with questions.
Sporty's Pilot Training+
Want unlimited access to Sporty's courses plus free shipping and flight training scholarships? Join Sporty's Pilot Training+, an all-in-one membership program that includes access to our Learn to Fly Course, plus much more. Plans start at just $60/month. Click here for details
AVAILABLE ON ALL YOUR DEVICES, TRY FOR FREE:
Online Course using a web browser – Login here
iPhone/iPad in Sporty's Pilot Training app – Apple App Store
AppleTV app – 4th Generation AppleTV or newer
Android in Sporty's Pilot Training app – Google Play Store
RokuTV App – search for the Sporty's Pilot Training Channel on your Roku device
The instrument training experts
At Sporty’s, we pioneered weekend instrument ground schools over 50 years ago, traveling the country to teach pilots the keys to IFR flying in just 3 days. Today, we operate an active flight school at our home airport (I69) with over 100 flight students. This everyday practical experience with instrument students makes us uniquely qualified to offer the most complete, up-to-date training courses available. When you learn with Sporty’s, you’re learning from the best.
Train at Sporty's Academy
Ready to put that instrument knowledge to work? You can earn your instrument rating at the home of Sporty’s Pilot Shop in Cincinnati, Ohio. Train with the same instructional staff that brings you Sporty’s Complete Instrument Rating Course on DVD or online. Based at Clermont County Airport (I69), Sporty’s Flight Training Center offers accelerated instrument training in an impeccable fleet of well-equipped aircraft. SportysAcademy.com or email Fly@SportysAcademy.com
Accepted for FAA Wings Credit
Works with:
Real world training
Anyone can spend a weekend cramming and pass the FAA written test; safe IFR flying requires a whole lot more than just memorizing answers to a multiple choice test. Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course goes far beyond test prep, with real world video segments and pro tips for safer flying. We’ll help you pass that test—we guarantee it—but we’ll also teach you how to be a confident and polished instrument pilot.
10 reasons pilots prefer Sporty's courses:
1. Nine formats, one price
We know you’re busy, so our course is available almost anywhere. Use our online learning platform for complete access to videos and quizzes anywhere you have an internet connection. There’s no software to install – just log in and start learning. Or use our dedicated mobile apps for iPad, iPhone, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV, which allow you to download videos for offline viewing. Progress automatically syncs between all formats so you can start a study session on your phone and finish on your laptop without missing a beat.
2. Get your written test endorsement
When you complete the course, we’ll give you the flight instructor endorsement to take the written test—instantly! You can take this endorsement to the FAA testing center, and log it in your ForeFlight logbook. It's complete preparation for the FAA Knowledge Test.
3. Pass all your tests—guaranteed!
Our course is so complete we guarantee you’ll pass all three tests: the written, oral and flight. Our video segments make complicated subjects like aerodynamics and weather easy to understand, so you’ll impress the examiner. Plus, our Airman Certification Standards Study Guide cross-references every required task to the videos, making it easy to review for the checkride.
4. Dynamic in-flight video
Sporty’s courses are famous for their HD video and 3D animations. Not a boring ground school, we put you in the cockpit for a real world look at what flying is all about. You’ll see low instrument approaches from the left seat, and you’ll hear real world communications with air traffic control. Plus, each video segment includes helpful review notes for efficient studying, and many also have review quizzes to reinforce key concepts.
5. 27 fully-narrated HD maneuvers
In addition to the comprehensive video segments, Sporty’s Instrument Rating course also includes a detailed maneuvers guide. All 27 maneuvers you might be tested on are included, with a 3D animation of the maneuver, narrated procedures, common errors, and completion standards. It’s a great way to review for the checkride.
6. Powerful test prep tools
You’ll ace the written test with our interactive tools. Create customized study sessions from the actual FAA test questions and see the right and wrong answers, plus plain English explanations written by our team of CFIs. Detailed analytics show you which areas need the most help, and allow you to study only the questions you’ve missed. Then, take a practice test that simulates the real knowledge exam you'll have to pass.
7. Flight instructor tracking
We make it easy for your instructor to follow your progress through the course, so you always stay in sync with your in-person lessons. Invite a CFI to see your practice test scores and review your video progress.
8. Ask a CFI
If you're stumped by a difficult subject, talk to the experienced flight instructors at Sporty's. We have a team of over 25 CFIs on staff at our flight school, training students every day just like you, so they can offer quick, helpful answers. Just click the Ask a CFI button to send a message.
9. Complete training syllabus and ACS
Research shows that pilots learn better when they use a high quality syllabus. We include a complete Training Course Outline as part of our course – the same one we use in our flight school. It includes detailed outlines for both ground and flight lessons. Think of it as a bridge between your at-home study and flight training. Our course also includes the full text of the FAA’s Airman Certification Standards (ACS) - your guide to the checkride - and cross-references each task to the video segments.
10. Free lifetime updates
When you buy a Sporty's course, you're gaining access to a a training platform that's always up to date and always improving. We are continually adding new video segments to reflect new regulations and technology. We also refresh our FAA test question database regularly, so you don't study outdated topics. There's no additional fee or subscription to receive these updates - just log in and learn!
More powerful features:
- Download videos for offline viewing in the app or stream them with an internet connection.
- Automatic progress sync between all formats.
- Air Facts segments go beyond the textbook to make you a proficient pilot.
- Review notes and quick quizzes after most videos help you review your progress.
- Subtitled videos help students whose first language is not English.
- Connect to your ForeFlight logbook to log your written test endorsement.
- Earn FAA WINGS credit and save on your insurance.
- Automatic updates mean you learn the latest information.
Platform Partners
ATTENTION FLIGHT SCHOOLS
Want to use Sporty's courses in your flight school? We can help! Sign up to be a Sporty's Dealer and enjoy attractive wholesale pricing on many Sporty's training products. Our courses are used in dozens of flight schools every day, from small Part 61 schools to large Part 141-approved schools, and can improve both customer satisfaction and completion rates. Contact Mark Wiesenhahn with questions.
Sporty's Pilot Training+
Want unlimited access to Sporty's courses plus free shipping and flight training scholarships? Join Sporty's Pilot Training+, an all-in-one membership program that includes access to our Learn to Fly Course, plus much more. Plans start at just $49/month. Click here for details
Online Course using a web browser – Login here
iPhone/iPad in Sporty's Pilot Training app –
AppleTV app – 4th Generation AppleTV or newer
Android in Sporty's Pilot Training app – Google Play Store
RokuTV App – search for the Sporty's Pilot Training Channel on your Roku device
The instrument training experts
At Sporty’s, we pioneered weekend instrument ground schools over 50 years ago, traveling the country to teach pilots the keys to IFR flying in just 3 days. Today, we operate an active flight school at our home airport (I69) with over 100 flight students. This everyday practical experience with instrument students makes us uniquely qualified to offer the most complete, up-to-date training courses available. When you learn with Sporty’s, you’re learning from the best.
Train at Sporty's Academy
Ready to put that instrument knowledge to work? You can earn your instrument rating at the home of Sporty’s Pilot Shop in Cincinnati, Ohio. Train with the same instructional staff that brings you Sporty’s Complete Instrument Rating Course on DVD or online. Based at Clermont County Airport (I69), Sporty’s Flight Training Center offers accelerated instrument training in an impeccable fleet of well-equipped aircraft. SportysAcademy.com or email Fly@SportysAcademy.com
Accepted for FAA Wings
Credit
Works with:
Reviews
Questions & Answers
Have Questions?
We can help!
Our expert pilots are available to answer your questions.
Ask our experts: LearnToFly@sportys.com
What we offer
- Price:
- Actual Price:
