Become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) with Positive Attitude Aviation
At Positive Attitude Aviation, we offer a comprehensive and hands-on Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) program designed to equip experienced commercial pilots with the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective and confident flight instructors. Take the next step in your aviation journey and play a vital role in shaping the future of aviation.
Why Become a Certified Flight Instructor?
Most professional pilots begin their careers as flight instructors, and for good reason. There’s no better way to:
- Build Essential Flight Time: Accumulate the flight hours needed to advance to other professional pilot opportunities, such as airline positions.
- Sharpen Your Piloting Skills: Teaching reinforces your understanding of aviation principles and hones your flying abilities.
- Develop Leadership and Communication Skills: Learn to effectively communicate complex information and guide students through their flight training.
- Make a Difference: Share your passion for aviation and help aspiring pilots achieve their dreams.
CFI - Single Engine Course Overview
Our CFI – Single Engine course is specifically tailored for Commercial Pilot Certificate holders who are ready to take on the rewarding challenge of becoming a Certificated Flight Instructor. We provide the in-depth knowledge and practical training required to successfully pass your FAA CFI checkride.
Prerequisites for CFI Training
To enroll in our CFI program, you must meet the following prerequisites:
- Hold a current FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate.
- Possess a valid FAA Medical Certificate (3rd Class or better).
- While not mandatory, completing the Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA) and Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) exams beforehand can significantly reduce the overall time and cost of your CFI training.
Our Comprehensive CFI Course Structure
Our CFI program at Positive Attitude Aviation is known for being detailed, thorough, and highly interactive. It demands dedication and hard work from both the student and our experienced instructors. Unlike some other flight courses, the CFI program has a significant ground school component, emphasizing the ability to effectively teach aviation principles both in the classroom and in the air. This course focuses less on enhancing your personal piloting skills and more on developing your instructional abilities.
1. In-Depth Ground School
The ground school portion of our CFI course covers all the essential subject areas outlined in the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) and the Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA) knowledge exams. By the time you are prepared for your FAA checkride, you will have acquired the comprehensive knowledge and the confidence needed to qualify as a flight instructor and effectively teach others how to fly safely and proficiently.
2. Hands-On Flight Training
The flight training component of the course encompasses all the maneuvers from the Private and Commercial pilot curricula, along with specific CFI maneuvers, all conducted with you instructing from the right seat. This crucial aspect of the training also includes the required spin training. Upon completion of the flight training, you will possess the necessary skills and confidence to effectively instruct another pilot while occupying the right seat of an aircraft.
3. The CFI Checkride
When both you and your instructor believe you have reached the required level of proficiency, you will undertake your practical checkride with a qualified Designated Practical Examiner (DPE). Our comprehensive training ensures you are well-prepared to demonstrate your instructional abilities and piloting skills to meet the FAA standards for a Certified Flight Instructor.
We’re committed to providing a truly exceptional discovery flight experience. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced Instructors: Our team of certified flight instructors is passionate about flying and dedicated to providing you with a safe and unforgettable experience.
- Well-Maintained Aircraft: We utilize modern, well-maintained aircraft that are regularly inspected to ensure your safety and comfort.
- Convenient Location: Our flight school is conveniently located in Gaithersburg, MD, easily accessible to those in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.
- Personalized Experience: We tailor each discovery flight to your individual interests and goals, ensuring you get the most out of your time in the air.
Frequently asked questions
Read our most frequently asked questions about becoming a certified flight instructor.
What is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)?
A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) is a pilot who has received specialized training and certification from the FAA to instruct others in flying aircraft. CFIs play a crucial role in training new pilots and helping existing pilots advance their skills.
Why should I get my CFI rating at Positive Attitude Aviation?
Positive Attitude Aviation offers a thorough, hands-on CFI program with experienced instructors dedicated to your success. We provide a strong foundation in both the theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills required to excel as a flight instructor and build valuable flight time for your aviation career.
What are the prerequisites for your CFI course?
To enroll in our CFI program, you must hold a current FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate and a valid FAA Medical Certificate (3rd Class or better). While not required, completing the Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA) and Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) exams beforehand can potentially shorten the duration and reduce the cost of your training.
How long does your CFI course typically take?
The duration of the CFI course can vary depending on your prior preparation, learning pace, and the frequency of your training. Students who have already passed their FIA and FOI exams generally complete the course more quickly. We tailor the training to individual needs while ensuring comprehensive preparation for the checkride.
What is included in the CFI ground school?
Our CFI ground school covers all the subject areas tested in the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) and the Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA) knowledge exams. You will gain a deep understanding of learning theories, teaching methods, effective communication, and the regulations relevant to flight instruction.
What does the flight training portion of the CFI course involve?
The flight training includes reviewing maneuvers from the Private and Commercial pilot syllabi, as well as learning specific CFI maneuvers. You will practice instructing these maneuvers from the right seat, simulating real-world teaching scenarios. Spin training is also a required part of the flight portion of the course.
Do I need to be an expert pilot to become a CFI?
While strong piloting skills are essential (as demonstrated by holding a Commercial Pilot Certificate), the CFI course focuses on developing your instructional abilities. You’ll learn how to effectively communicate procedures, analyze student errors, and provide constructive feedback, rather than solely focusing on perfecting your own flying.
Will becoming a CFI help my aviation career?
Absolutely! Becoming a CFI is a well-recognized pathway for building the flight time and experience necessary for many professional pilot careers, including airline positions. It also enhances your understanding of aviation principles and develops valuable communication and leadership skills.
What if I haven't taken the FIA and FOI exams yet?
While taking the FIA and FOI exams beforehand can be advantageous, it is not a requirement to begin our CFI course. We will incorporate the necessary ground instruction to prepare you for these exams as part of the program if needed.
How do I get started with your CFI training program?
The best way to get started is to contact us directly at Positive Attitude Aviation. We can discuss your experience, answer any further questions you may have, and outline the enrollment process. We look forward to helping you achieve your goal of becoming a Certified Flight Instructor!
Ready to Inspire the Next Generation?
Contact Positive Attitude Aviation today to learn more about our Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) program and take the first step towards a rewarding career in flight instruction!
Fill out the form or call us at 301-232-3550
Email Us at info@positiveattitudeaviation.org
Mon-Fri : 09:00 am to 05:00pm