What are your incentives for pursuing an Instrument Rating?

Darrin Sherrill’s Advice About Private and Commercial Pilot Certifications

Over the last few years, Darrin S. Sherrill of Georgia has spent a large portion of his time developing his skills as a pilot. This interest led him to obtain first a private pilot license and later a commercial certification and a Multi-Engine Land certification. Darrin Scott Sherrill has enjoyed the benefits of both types of licenses.

How Do You Choose Your License?

Since Darrin Sherrill began his aviation journey, he has devoted his time to studying techniques and theories about flight. His initial efforts led him to choose a private pilot certification because he wanted more freedom than is afforded by a sport pilot license. A sport pilot license has the distinct advantage of requiring less expense and preparation, but the pilot is consequently more restricted.

Private pilots are not allowed to offer their services for compensation. Although the private pilot license is cheaper than a commercial license, a private pilot still faces intense requirements, such as the regular renewal of his medical exam. One advantage to Darrin S. Sherrill of a private pilot license is the ability to carry more than one passenger, since he enjoys flying with his family in tow.

Commercial licenses allow a pilot to collect payment for his skills. Once a pilot takes this step, he is able to begin making a living off of flying. However, to reach this level of competency, pilots must log over 250 hours of flight time as the commanding officer, an achievement that requires extensive effort. In addition, commercial pilots are required to obtain an instrument rating in order to prove their competency in hazardous conditions.

Finally Darrin Scott Sherrill highly recommends choosing to add an instrument rating. As mentioned above, this additional certification gives pilots the freedom to safely fly under conditions that create reduced visibility. Thanks to Darrin Sherrill’s instrument rating, he was more thoroughly prepared for his commercial license tests.