Instructor Pilot Training
Flight instructor pilots teach individuals how to fly aircraft. These professionals lead prospective pilots through flight and ground-based training. The Federal Aviation Administration mandates a specialized training program for holders of commercial pilot certificates wishing to become flight instructors. This program includes ground-based classroom instruction and aeronautical maneuvers. Additionally, a pilot must pass several tests to earn a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate.
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Fundamentals of Instruction
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The FAA considers a CFI license a "license to teach" instead of a license to fly. For this reason, CFI candidates must undergo a "fundamentals of instruction" or FOI, course prior to obtaining their licenses. FOI courses include information on student learning styles, teaching methods and flight lesson plan design. After an individual finishes an authorized FOI course, she must complete a written FOI test. As with all FAA-sponsored written test, a pilot must answer at least 70 percent of the questions correctly to pass.
Flight Instructor Ground School
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In addition to the required FOI course, CFI candidates must also undergo a flight instructor "ground school." This classroom training course covers the technical maneuvers necessary to fly the aircraft at an advanced level and advanced aircraft systems and structures, as well as FAA regulations relevant to flight instructors. Similar to the FOI course, CFI candidates must take and pass an FAA flight instructor written test.
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Flight Training
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In addition to teaching and extensive aviation knowledge, CFIs must possess excellent command of aircraft, both to demonstrate proper flying techniques to their students and to recover from aircraft incidents and mishaps caused by students' incorrect maneuvers. For these reasons, a prospective flight instructor must undergo an intensive flight training course. Pilots must learn to complete ordinary flight maneuvers, such as stalls, landings and chandelles, at an advanced level. Additionally, a CFI candidate must complete spin training, which allows him to regain command of a spiraling, out-of-control airplane.
Verbal and Flight Test
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After completing training, a CFI candidate must pass a licensing test with an FAA check airman. This test consists of a verbal knowledge quiz, called an "oral" by pilots, consisting of several questions related to teaching, aircraft systems, FAA regulations and flight maneuvers, as well as a flight test, where CFI candidates must demonstrate satisfactory teaching skills, advanced maneuvers, spin recoveries and general flying competencies. Upon passing the test, the FAA check airman will issue the pilot a CFI certificate.
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