How to Become a CFI

Giving flight instruction

CFI stands for Certified Flight Instructor. CFIs are responsible for teaching people the fundamentals of flight. Depending on the level of training, a CFI can teach either single or multi-engine (MEI) courses. Additional ratings to a CFI include CFII (instructors that teach instrument students). CFIs can also train private pilots, commercial pilots, and can teach ground instruction. Flight instructors also perform FAA-regulated flight checkouts and proficiency checks.

Things You'll Need

• Logbook

Instructions

1. Complete private pilot training and get your very first pilot's license. To complete the training, you must be at least 17 years old at the time of your FAA check ride exam and have logged 40 hours of flight time in your logbook. You must meet the following flight requirements: demonstrating your ground course experience, solo flight capabilities, and cross-country flying. You will need to pass a medical exam, knowledge exam, practical and oral exam in order to receive the license, all conducted under visual flight rules (VFR).

2. Obtain your instrument rating for less-than-perfect flying days. During this training, you learn to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR) to fly in rain showers, low visibility, and foggy conditions. You learn how to conduct an IFR instrument approach into an airport for landing.

3. Complete your commercial pilot training and get your license. This will allow you to fly for hire, whereas the private pilot license only allows you to fly for leisure. To qualify you still need a medical certificate and 250 hours of flight time.

4. Take a CFI course to start your instructor training. This course includes how to fly the airplane from the right seat and also how to teach new students the fundamentals of flight. This course explains flight techniques, how to calmly correct errors, and increasing student learning, all in a safe manner.

5. Maintain CFI performance and medical status in accordance with FAA regulations. This consists of conducting a flight review with an FAA examiner every two years. You must also maintain a second-class medical certificate.

References

• Sky Walk Inc.: Becoming A Certified Flight Instructor