Flight Instructor Training
Step by step
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Why become a flight instructor?
Unlock a rewarding career that blends your passion for aviation with the joy of teaching. As a flight instructor, you'll build valuable flight hours, enhance your skills, and inspire the next generation of pilots. Enjoy the flexibility of setting your schedule, the satisfaction of watching your students succeed, and the opportunity to continuously learn and grow. Make a significant impact on aviation safety while advancing your own career.
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Eligibility
The following requirements for a Flight Instructor Certificate must be met:
Must be at least able to read, write, and understand English.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Must hold a valid a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating.
Must hold a valid FAA third class medical (or higher)
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The Process
Our comprehensive CFI training program is designed to equip aspiring flight instructors with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in aviation instruction. Our training process is divided into two main phases:
Ground Instruction: Mastering the ACS
The first phase of our CFI training focuses on thorough ground instruction, covering all parts of the Airman Certification Standards (ACS). We will guide you through:
Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI): Learn effective teaching methods, student evaluation techniques, and how to create engaging lesson plans.
Aeronautical Knowledge: Deepen your understanding of critical subjects, including aerodynamics, weather, regulations, navigation, and aircraft systems.
Flight Maneuvers and Procedures: Study the principles behind flight maneuvers, emergency procedures, and best practices for safe flight operations.
Teaching Techniques: Develop strategies for effectively communicating complex concepts to students of varying skill levels.
Our ground instruction ensures you have a solid foundation in all aspects of the ACS, preparing you for both the knowledge tests and the practical test of becoming a flight instructor.
Flight Training: Applying Knowledge in the Air
Once you have mastered the ground instruction, we transition to the second phase: hands-on flight training. Here, you will:
Demonstrate and Teach Maneuvers: Practice teaching various flight maneuvers, honing your ability to provide clear, concise instructions while ensuring student safety.
Simulated Instruction Scenarios: Engage in realistic teaching scenarios where you’ll take on the role of the instructor, guiding students through different flight phases.
Emergency Procedures: Gain confidence in handling and teaching emergency situations, ensuring you can effectively train your students to respond calmly and correctly.
In-Flight Evaluations: Receive constructive feedback from your instructor during in-flight evaluations, helping you refine your teaching techniques and improve your instructional skills.
Our CFI training program is designed to create competent, confident flight instructors who are ready to inspire and educate the next generation of pilots. Join us and take the next step in your aviation career with our structured, supportive, and thorough CFI training.
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Aircraft and Cost
SK Flight Instruction is based out of Schilling Aviation Services in Salina, KS. We use two of their aircraft, rented directly out to the students, for flight training. Both aircraft are great for training and provide great learning environments. The aircraft rates are fixed to include fuel and insurance.
Cost Estimates
Average Training (50 Hours)
Aircraft Rental Cost: 10 hours x $165/hour = $1,650
Instruction Cost: 40 hours x $60/hour = $2,400
Additional Fees (Check-ride, two knowledge exams): $1000
Total Estimated Cost: $5,050As with any flight training, time and cost are dependent on a number of different factors:
Individual Progression: Each student progresses at their own rate, some require more practice and time with certain items. Meeting more frequently can help students gain proficiency and reduce the total hours needed during flight instructor training.
Financial Considerations: A higher frequency of lessons and consistent practice can lead to faster progress, however it requires a stronger financial commitment.
Study and Preparation: Diligent study of aviation subjects can enhance understanding and reduce the need for repeated lessons. Preparing for lessons ahead of time by creating and practicing “lesson plans” can reduce instruction time needed.
Weather and Aircraft Availability: Poor weather can delay training and make it more difficult to fly frequently.
Personal Schedule: Students with flexible schedules may find it easier to complete training quickly, while those with a limited schedule may find it more difficult to dedicate time.Cancellation Policy
Students are expected to show up on-time and prepared for each flight lesson. Students are required to cancel their flight within 24 hours of the block time, if necessary. There will be a $60 no-show/late cancellation policy incurred for each hour of the scheduled training. Exceptions may be made on a base-by-base case.