Hawkeye wrote:

I've never had an IFR rating, there are times when I wish I had one,
especially when the weather turns nasty faster than predicted. Before
everyone runs out to get one, become as proficient as possible with
the ratings they have. Fundamentals of flying, knowledge of equipment
and basic common sense go a long ways in safe operation of an
aircraft. The one thing one of my first instructors taught me was
'never be in a rush...haste kills'. Take the time to do it right the
first time...you may not have a second chance. Too bad there wasn't a
way to teach common sense.


Just to say that having an instrument rating is of no real value
unless currency and proficiency are maintained is addressing half
the problem. I have found that the folks that would let their IFR
proficency go away also have a tendency to take some of their good
ol' VFR proficencies slide as well. So I agree that currency of
_all_ your ratings need to be well maintained or perhaps a flight
be re-considered.

If you take your flying seriously, or own your own aircraft, the
the instrument rating is more of a necessity than an option. You
worked hard for the rating... its dumb to let that skill evaporate.
Spend the money to do a IPC with a CFII once a year, even though
you are current; it's cheap insurance.