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Instruction (Getting Your Certification) Instrument and Night Flying Training The FAA requirements for the private pilot certificate include training in flying at night as well as by reference to flight instruments. There is no solo requirement for these skill areas; all instruction is conducted with the CFI onboard. The night flying experience includes a 100 nautical mile cross country flight, as well. If you schedule your flight time on the evening of a full moon, you'll also log some spectacular memories of the Chesapeake below, waves shimmering in moonlight, stars above. Instrument conditions are typically simulated by wearing an "IFR hood" which is a device that covers most of a pilot's field of vision...except the instrument panel. By referencing and learning to trust the instruments, the pilot will learn to fly the aircraft in a stable manner and avoid the spatial misperceptions that poor visibility can trigger. Remember, the CFI is on board! Without an instrument rating, private pilots must stay in fair weather...VFR (Visual Flight Rules) weather. But sometimes conditions can deteroriate it's critical the pilot is capable of handling the plane effectively in order to fly clear of the conditions or return to an airport. The few hours of instrument training provided in private pilot training can be a real help should the pilot ever find himself in IFR conditions. Copyright © Phoenix Aviation Incorporated 2003. All Rights Reserved.