Jay Beckman wrote:
"Scott Draper" wrote in message
...
I was instrument-rated and had 300 hours before I took my first
passenger.

The fact that you passed a checkride says pretty much nothing about
your safety or competence.

Sorry Scott,

But having your IA and 300+ hours says nothing about yours either.

Well, I think both of you are taking things to a bit of an extreme.

DEs are not generally in the habit of handing tickets out to those they
do not think competent, and DEs are about as well-prepared as anyone to
make that call. I don't think it's crazy to say that a newly-minted
pilot is reasonably safe to make sunny-day hops.

Likewise, the IR does indicate that you've obtained a basic competency
in managing flight in conditions that a non-rated pilot may not be able
to handle. However, it is a very specific education, and in many
circumstances you'd be better off with a pilot who learned aerobatics
than with an instrument pilot. To me, its first and foremost use is as
an indicator of attitude- all other things being equal, a pilot who has
earned the rating has demonstrated a commitment to mastering the arts
of aviation. YMMV.

-cwk.