Advanced Flight Training
Already a pilot but want to add an instrument rating or expand your skills? Are you looking for time building? Synergy’s expert instructors and full motion flight simulator can help you take the next step. We offer basic and advanced transition training, recurrent training, avionics differences and more at both our Bloomington, Illinois and Wheeling, Illinois locations.
Scroll down to learn more about our in person and in the air instruction with our fleet of Cirrus and Piper aircraft, as well as options through our Full Motion Flight Simulator.
Our Advanced Training Options
We offer instrument rating and recurrent training for Cirrus, Piper, and Cessna private aircraft models at our Bloomington, Illinois location through in-flight instruction and our full-motion Redbird Flight Simulator. Aircraft rental for flight training is also available at an additional cost.
Add the Instrument Rating
$105-125 per hour for flight instruction based on aircraft model and membership status
An instrument rating unlocks privileges that allow you to fully utilize your aircraft's capabilities, enabling you to travel in a wider variety of weather. For those with rigid schedules, or use their aircraft as a business tool, an instrument rating is an absolute must. Adding this rating to your pilot’s license also sharpens your piloting skillset and makes you a safer pilot.
Recurrent Training
$105-125 per hour for flight instruction based on aircraft model and membership status
Regular and consistent flight training is key to increasing your flying skills and ensuring safety as a pilot. Whether you’re interested in improving your takeoff and landing skills or expanding your IFR capabilities, these 1-2 day recurrent training courses will keep you sharp and ready to handle the challenges of aviation.
View Your Aircraft Options
View Your Aircraft Options
the Piper Arrow III
Synergy is proud to present our 2002 Piper Arrow III available for aircraft rental and advanced flight instruction. Our Arrow received an avionics upgrade in February of 2022, including but not limited to: Garmin G5 Standby Attitude Indicator, Garmin G3X Touchscreen Primary Function and Multi-Function Display, Garmin GTN 750 GPS, and Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot.
The Arrow is great for:
Receiving complex aircraft instruction time to meet the 10 hours of Complex time required for the Commercial Pilot Certificate
Cross country time building towards Instrument Rating and/or Commercial Certificate
Instrument training with autopilot coupled approaches
Advanced training to prepare for larger, more complex aircraft
Aircraft rental for long cross country trips
135-140 knots True Air Speed at 11 gallons per hour of fuel consumption
Piper Arrow III Rental and Instruction Rates
$175 per hour dry rate plus fuel costs (ask us about our block hour rates)
$125 per hour instructor rate
Redbird Flight Simulator
The Redbird is a FULL Motion control loading AATD (Advance Aviation Training Device) that allows pilots to receive qualified training at a fraction of the cost.
Use of the simulator ranges from $75-95 per hour based on your membership status available at our Bloomington, IL location for both our Wheeling and Bloomington students. Instruction rates range from $105-$125 per hour based on membership status as well.
Flight simulation also allows you to safely experience and learn from more realistic and complete emergency scenarios.
With single and multi-engine capability, these advancements in technology bring some of the same benefits military and airline pilots receive to the private pilot level. The Redbird Flight Simulator at Synergy Flight Center in Bloomington, Illinois is 1 of only 12 CAPS Handle Equipped simulators in the country.
Recent changes to the FARs now allow instrument rated pilots to maintain currency and proficiency in an authorized flight simulator without a CFII present. Simulated Aircraft Include:
Cessna 172 G1000
Cirrus SR22 Perspective
Cirrus Specific Advanced Training
Whether you’re looking to transition into flying a Cirrus, want to add instrument procedures, mastering new avionics, or want to uncover the differences between airframes and powerplants… you need a Cirrus-authorized flight training center.
Synergy Flight Center is the only Cirrus-authorized flight training center in Illinois providing flight training from two locations, Bloomington, IL (BMI) and Wheeling, IL (PWK). And two of our owned aircraft are brand new, delivered from the factory in 2021. Both are available for training and rental at either location.
Cirrus Training and Rental Rates
Cirrus Flight Training is $105-125 per hour for in person flight instruction and Cirrus Aircraft Rental is $288-360 per hour based on your membership level. Learn more about the benefits of membership here.
Basic (VFR) Transition Training
These courses are designed for licensed pilots who would like to transition into flying a Cirrus. For pilots looking to continue their training in a Cirrus or to rent as part of our membership program, this 3-5 day transition course is your first step into the Cirrus life. Training includes subjects like aircraft control, engine management, avionics procedures, and abnormal situations. This course qualifies for flying in VFR conditions.
Advanced (IFR) Transition Training
This 5+ day course includes everything in the basic transition course and adds instrument procedures. Designed for pilots with an instrument rating, this course allows you to get the most out of flying the Cirrus by qualifying to operate in the IFR environment.
Avionics Differences
Designed for Cirrus pilots transitioning into new avionics, this 1-2 day course builds upon Cirrus-specific knowledge and focuses on mastering PFD and MFD interpretation, flight management systems, autopilot usage, navigation and more.
Systems Differences
This 1-2 day course covers the differences between Cirrus airframes and powerplants for pilots already familiar with Cirrus who are interested in flying different models of Cirrus.
Why Learn to Fly a Cirrus
Expert Instruction
You will receive expert instruction from a Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP) or Training Cirrus Instructor (TCI). These instructors are specially trained by Cirrus to conduct training in Cirrus aircraft. This includes factory-level knowledge of Cirrus aircraft as well as Cirrus’s structured flight training methodology.
High-Quality Content
The Cirrus Learning Catalog features educational content for students. These high-quality modules are designed to present everything you need to know in an engaging and fun format. From aircraft systems to takeoff and landing technique, you will enjoy these clear and effective presentations.
Fly As You Learn
From Day 1, our flight training method incorporates real world flying, which allows you to learn while simultaneously experiencing how personal aviation can transform your life. You’ll be learning from a Cirrus-trained instructor who will demonstrate how efficient travel can streamline your workdays and open up new weekend possibilities.
Flexible Courses
Whatever your interest in aviation, the Cirrus Approach to flight training balances well-structured lessons with the flexibility to tailor your training experience to your specific needs and goals. Whether just starting out in aviation, or are a seasoned aviator wanting to join the Cirrus family, there’s a path for you!
Look inside a Cirrus
Why Synergy for Advanced Training
Our Redbird Flight Simulator is 1 of only 12 CAPS Handle Equipped simulators in the country.
Synergy is the the only Cirrus Training Center in Illinois approved by Cirrus.
Our flight instructors can meet you at either of our facilities in Bloomington, IL (KBMI) or Chicago/Wheeling, IL (KPWK).
As a Cirrus Training Center, you have access to the worldwide Cirrus family, from instructors, maintenance professionals, sales representatives, and fellow pilots.
Utilizing Cirrus Approach, Cirrus' online training platform, you have access to the industry’s latest and greatest content created from experts at Cirrus. This allows you to learn at your own pace.
Whether it is flying for fun, family, work, or play our instructors employ scenario-based training tailored to your flying goals. Synergy Flight Center can prepare you for what to expect from your hobby, commute, or a career in aviation.