CERTIFIED FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR
Flight Instructor Curriculum
Prerequisites
1. Age: Minimum of 18 years old.
2. Language: Proficient in English (read, speak, write, and understand).
3. Medical Certificate: Obtain at least a Second-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
4. Pilot Certifications: Must hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate and meet the flight hour requirements.
Flight Hours Requirements
1. Minimum of 250 flight hours.
2. Flight Time Breakdown:
– 100 hours of pilot-in-command (PIC) time.
– 50 hours of cross-country flight time.
– 20 hours of training received from a certified flight instructor.
Curriculum Outline
1. Ground School
– Regulations and Operations
– FAA regulations pertaining to flight instruction.
– Understanding of the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM).
– National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reportable incidents.
– Aerodynamics
– Principles of flight.
– Aircraft performance and limitations.
– Weight and balance considerations.
– Meteorology
– Weather theory, interpretation of meteorological reports.
– Understanding weather phenomena and their impact on flight.
– Use of aviation weather services and tools.
– Flight Instruments
– Detailed study of aircraft instruments.
– Navigation systems and procedures.
– Understanding of flight management systems.
– Aircraft Systems
– Fundamentals of aircraft systems including engines, electrical, hydraulic systems, etc.
– Pre-flight and post-flight inspection procedures.
– Emergency procedures and aircraft limitations.
– Teaching Techniques
– Fundamentals of instruction including teaching methods and learning styles.
– Lesson planning and conducting effective ground and flight lessons.
– Assessment and evaluation techniques for student pilots.
2. Flight Training
– Flight Maneuvers
– Demonstration and practice of basic flight maneuvers.
– Advanced flight maneuvers and emergency procedures.
– Cross-Country Flight Training
– Planning and executing cross-country flights.
– Navigation, communication, and decision-making skills.
– Night Flying
– Night flying techniques and regulations.
– Safety protocols for night operations.
– Simulator Training
– Use of flight simulators for practice and proficiency.
– Scenario-based training for emergencies and instrument flying.
3. Practical Experience
– Flight Instruction
– Under supervision: give instruction to student pilots.
– Conduct solo student pilot training.
– Provide ground instruction for students.
– Flight Checkride Preparation
– Prepare for the Checkride with an FAA examiner.
– Complete all necessary paperwork and logbooks.
Certification Requirements
1. Written Exam: Pass the FAA Certified Flight Instructor Knowledge Exam.
2. Flight Test: Successfully complete a practical test (checkride) with an FAA examiner.
3. Logbook Endorsements: Obtain necessary endorsements from an authorized instructor for all completed training.
Additional Considerations
– Continued Education: Consider pursuing additional ratings (e.g., Instrument Instructor, Multi-engine Instructor).
– Insurance: Be aware of insurance requirements to teach in certain aircraft.
– Networking: Join aviation organizations for continued education, networking, and opportunities.
Conclusion
Becoming a flight instructor is a rewarding endeavor that requires dedication, a solid understanding of aviation principles, and exceptional teaching skills. Completing this curriculum prepares aspiring instructors to effectively educate the next generation of pilots. Proper planning, practice, and passion for aviation are key components of success as a flight instructor. Always stay updated with FAA regulations and continuous training requirements to maintain your instructor status.
© 2025 Air Transport Flight Academy – All Rights Reserved
