How to Be Instructor Pilot - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 19, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increased demand for air travel has caused airlines to become more competitive, leading to higher salaries for pilots. As a result, the number of individuals applying to become an instructor pilot is also on the rise, creating a higher demand for experienced pilots with the necessary skills and qualifications. To become an instructor pilot, applicants must have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time and a commercial pilot's license.

They must also have a thorough understanding of the regulations, procedures, and principles of flying. they must possess excellent communication, instruction, and leadership skills in order to effectively teach student pilots. With these skills and qualifications in place, instructor pilots can enjoy a rewarding career with generous pay and benefits.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Commercial Pilot Certificate. To become an instructor pilot, you must first have a commercial pilot certificate. This requires passing a written and practical test, as well as logging a minimum amount of flight time.
Get Flight Instructor Certification. Once you have your commercial pilot certificate, you will need to obtain Flight Instructor Certification. This will require passing a written and practical exam, as well as logging a certain amount of flight time.
Earn Certified Flight Instructor Rating. To become an instructor pilot, you must obtain a Certified Flight Instructor Rating. This will require passing another written and practical exam, as well as logging additional flight time.
Obtain Instrument Rating. You must also obtain an Instrument Rating to become an instructor pilot. This requires passing a written and practical exam, as well as logging additional flight time.
Get Certified Flight Instructor Instrument Rating. Once you have your Instrument Rating, you will need to obtain a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument rating. This will require passing another written and practical exam, as well as logging additional flight time.
Obtain Multi-Engine Rating. If you want to become an instructor pilot in a multi-engine aircraft, you must obtain a Multi-Engine rating. This will require passing another written and practical exam, as well as logging additional flight time.
Get Certified Flight Instructor Multi-Engine Rating. Once you have your Multi-Engine rating, you will need to obtain a Certified Flight Instructor Multi-Engine rating. This will require passing another written and practical exam, as well as logging additional flight time.
Become an Authorized Instructor Pilot. After completing all of the above requirements, you can apply to become an Authorized Instructor Pilot with the FAA. This will require passing another written and practical exam, as well as logging additional flight time.

Instructor pilots play a critical role in the aviation industry, ensuring aircraft and pilots are operating safely and efficiently. To stay ahead and capable as an instructor pilot, there are several steps they can take. First, they should continually stay up-to-date on new regulations and procedures, as well as advancements in aircraft technology.

Secondly, they must remain proficient in their flying skills, periodically practicing maneuvers and completing check rides as needed. Thirdly, they should stay engaged with other pilots, taking advantage of training opportunities and attending educational seminars. Finally, they should stay physically and mentally healthy, getting sufficient rest and exercise to keep their minds sharp and alert.

By following these steps, instructor pilots can remain capable and stay ahead of the curve in the aviation industry.

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Job Description

Develop and implement training programs for pilots, including classroom instruction and flight instruction.
Assess the performance of pilots in the aircraft, identify areas of improvement, and provide feedback and advice.
Provide written and verbal communications to pilots regarding regulations, procedures, and safety.
Monitor student progress and provide feedback to ensure mastery of skills and safety.
Evaluate pilot performance in order to make recommendations for advancement.
Maintain flight records and other documents required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and company policies when conducting flight operations.
Assist with flight scheduling and preparation of flight plans.
Plan and execute training exercises to promote proficiency in all areas of flight.
Participate in safety meetings and provide safety briefings to pilots.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Possess a valid commercial pilot license with an appropriate type rating.
Meet all requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to act as an instructor pilot.
Pass a rigorous physical examination every two years.
Possess strong knowledge of aviation rules, regulations, and procedures.
Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Have an in-depth understanding of aircraft systems and performance.
Be knowledgeable in the principles of flight, aircraft handling, and aerodynamics.
Have the ability to teach effectively and clearly.
Be able to make sound decisions quickly and accurately in an emergency situation.
Have a good understanding of aircraft operations, maintenance, and safety.

The ability to be an effective Instructor Pilot is essential for anyone wanting to pursue a career in aviation. Being an Instructor Pilot requires a deep understanding of the aviation principles and concepts, as well as the ability to effectively communicate, motivate, and provide guidance to students. Having the knowledge and expertise necessary to teach a student how to fly an aircraft safely is the foundation of successful instruction.

In addition, having excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills is key in being able to quickly identify and resolve any issues that may arise during a flight. Without these skills, it will be difficult for an Instructor Pilot to provide effective instruction and ensure that a student learns all the necessary skills to become a safe and competent pilot.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as an Instructor Pilot?
How comfortable are you teaching in a variety of aircrafts?
What strategies do you use to ensure students learn effectively?
How do you handle challenging students?
What methods do you use to evaluate student performance?
How do you stay up to date with aviation regulations and safety protocols?
What techniques do you use to explain complex aviation concepts?
How do you work with other instructors to ensure the success of your students?
What challenges have you faced as an Instructor Pilot, and how did you overcome them?
Explain how you would handle a situation in which a students progress is not meeting expectations.

Common Tools in Industry

Flight Simulator. Software designed to simulate the experience of flying an aircraft, allowing pilots to practice and improve their skills. (e. g. Microsoft Flight Simulator)
Flight Planning Software. Software used to plan a flight route, taking into account aircraft performance, weather, air traffic, and other factors. (e. g. SkyVector)
Aviation Charts. Maps used to depict airspace structure, airports, terrain features, navigation aids, and other information relevant to flight operations. (e. g. Jeppesen Charts)
Aviation Database. Databases containing information on aircraft performance, airspace restrictions, weather conditions, and other relevant data. (e. g. Airnav RadarBox Database)
Electronic Flight Bag. Electronic devices containing aviation charts, navigation aids, and other information relevant to flight operations. (e. g. ForeFlight EFB)
Electronic Checklist System. Software used to create and manage checklists for aircraft operations. (e. g. CFI Checklists)
Aviation Maintenance Software. Software used to track aircraft maintenance records, schedule maintenance tasks, and monitor aircraft performance data. (e. g. Aviation Maintenance Manager)

Professional Organizations to Know

The International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI)
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
The Helicopter Association International (HAI)
The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI)
The Professional Helicopter Pilots Association (PHPA)
The International Council of Air Shows (ICAS)

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Common Important Terms

Airspace. The three-dimensional area around an airport where aircraft are allowed to fly.
Flight Plan. A written plan that outlines the route, altitude, speed, and other details of a planned flight.
Navigation. The process of determining the position of an aircraft in relation to its intended destination.
Radio Communication. The passing of information between pilots and air traffic controllers using two-way radios.
Visual Flight Rules (VFR). A set of regulations that govern aircraft operation when the pilot is able to see outside the cockpit and follow specific routes and altitudes.
Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). A set of regulations that govern aircraft operation when the pilot is not able to see outside the cockpit and must rely on instruments for navigation and communication.
Takeoff & Landing. The process of starting or ending a flight, including taxiing on the runway, climbing or descending from altitude, and other maneuvers as required.
Aviation Weather. The atmospheric conditions that affect flight operations, including wind, temperature, clouds, and visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Instructor Pilot?

An Instructor Pilot is a qualified aviator responsible for training other pilots in aircraft operation and safety.

What qualifications must an Instructor Pilot have?

An Instructor Pilot must hold a commercial pilot's license, have a minimum of 500 total flight hours, and have a valid flight instructor certificate.

What duties does an Instructor Pilot fulfill?

An Instructor Pilot is responsible for providing instruction in all areas of aircraft operation, such as preflight inspection, takeoff and landing, emergency procedures, and air navigation.

How does an Instructor Pilot assess their students?

An Instructor Pilot regularly evaluates student performance in the classroom and in the aircraft, and administers FAA-approved proficiency tests to determine if their students are ready for solo flight.

What is the most important responsibility for an Instructor Pilot?

The most important responsibility for an Instructor Pilot is ensuring the safety of their students during all flight operations.

Web Resources

Instructor Pilot Hiring | Embry - Riddle Aeronautical University ... daytonabeach.erau.edu
College Flight Instructor - Wayman Aviation Academy wayman.edu
Certified Flight Instructors | Ohio University www.ohio.edu