Choosing a Flight Instructor
The choice of a flight instructor sets the stage for your success as a student pilot. During the course of training, the CFI (certified flight instructor) will be more than a teacher; he will be a mentor, coach, cheerleader, and friend. The instructor will be at your side during one of the most memorable times of your life, so it’s wise to take care in the selection process.
Keep the following things in mind when selecting a CFI for sport pilot:
1. Is the instructor enthusiastic about sport pilot training? Believe it or not, sport pilot is quite new in the aviation world, and some instructors have little interest in teaching sport pilots. If so, find someone who is. EAA’s Sport Pilot Instructor database can help, click here.
2. Is there an aircraft available? Not all aircraft can be flown by sport pilots, and you need an LSA for your training. Make sure that at least one LSA will be regularly available.
3. How is the aircraft and facility maintained? Usually, a well maintained aircraft and flight school are indications that the instructor and training facility have a professional attitude and approach to training.
4. How much training experience does the CFI have? All CFIs meet the FAA’s stringent training requirements to be a flight instructor. However, experience honing their teaching skills is very important, and some instructors have just begun their aviation careers. Look for an instructor with an established record of teaching new students to fly.
5. Are you compatible with your instructor? After discussing your goal of becoming a pilot, ask yourself if this is someone you will enjoy training with. Flight training is challenging, but it should be fun and enjoyable. If you question whether this instructor’s training style will mesh with yours, trust your feelings!
6. Is the instructor a member of NAFI (National Association of Flight Instructors)? Membership in this professional association can be a good indicator of the CFI’s dedication to his flight instruction skills, rather than merely building time for an airline job.
You’ll notice one item missing from the list: the cost of instruction. Low price alone is the worst reason for selecting an instructor. Most instructors have comparable rates so saving a couple of bucks an hour is false economy.
Remember that you are not marrying your instructor. If after a few lessons you realize your instructor isn’t working out, seek out a new one.
Related topics:
Choosing a Flight Instructor |
Find a Flight Instructor |
Get your Student Certificate |
Knowledge Test |
Find a Testing Center |
Practical Test Standards |
Find an Examiner
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