Requirements
To earn a flight instructor certificate with an airplane single-engine rating, you'll need to:
- Be at least 18 and hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating.
- Pass two FAA knowledge tests: Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI) and Flight Instructor – Airplane (FIA).
- Receive spin-awareness training and a logbook endorsement for instructional proficiency in stall and spin entries and recoveries.
- Receive training on the areas of operation in the FAA's flight instructor testing standards, and pass the practical test.
What CFI training covers
Teaching, not just flying
The CFI checkride is famous for its oral exam. You'll learn how people learn, how to build lesson plans, and how to explain aerodynamics, regulations and maneuvers clearly and correctly.
Flying from the right seat
You'll fly every private and commercial maneuver from the right seat while teaching it out loud, and learn to spot and correct common student errors before they become dangerous.
Endorsements and responsibility
Solo endorsements, knowledge-test and checkride sign-offs, flight reviews, and the legal responsibilities that come with signing someone's logbook.
Beyond the initial CFI
- CFII (instrument instructor): teach instrument students and give instrument proficiency checks.
Ask us about your plan from where you are today.