Have you ever dreamt of being a flight instructor in India? It is one of the best career options for a CPL holder to enter the aviation world. It has the advantage of getting placed in a company immediately after getting the CPL. It cuts the additional cost and time of waiting for a job vacancy in an airline after getting the license.
Certified Flight Instructor or simply Assistant Flight Instructor jobs are highly rewarding for a reason that it gives an opportunity to build instructional flying hours, which is highly sought after by international carriers around the world. Because of the recent boom in aviation after the pandemic, especially in India, Flight Instructors are in a very high demand. As a result of the demand, the Certified Flight Instructors take home a very handsome salary which is mostly on par with the Airline pilots.
Definition of a Flight Instructor
A Flight Instructor is what we refer to as a highly skilled aviation professional who teaches and trains aspiring pilots to become proficient in flying various types of aircraft. They are responsible for providing comprehensive ground and flight training to their students, which includes teaching them about the technical aspects of flying, navigation, and safety protocols. A Flight Instructor must possess excellent communication skills and be able to instruct their students in a clear and concise manner. In addition, they must be able to assess the progress of their students and adapt their teaching methods to help them overcome any difficulties they may be facing. Ultimately, a flight instructor’s goal is to prepare their students to become safe and competent pilots, able to operate aircraft in a variety of weather conditions and situations.
Roles & Responsibilities of a Flight Instructor
As a flight instructor, there are various roles and responsibilities that one must fulfil in order to provide quality training to aspiring pilots. Here are the top flight instructor responsibilities:
1. Ensuring Safety
One of the primary responsibilities of a flight instructor is to ensure the safety of their students during flight training. This involves conducting pre-flight checks and ensuring that all necessary safety protocols are followed. Additionally, the flight instructor must be able to make quick decisions and take action in the event of an emergency situation.
2. Providing Comprehensive Training
A flight instructor is responsible for providing comprehensive training to their students. This includes teaching them about the technical aspects of flying, navigation, and communication skills required for successful flight operations. They must also ensure that the students are familiar with the aircraft and its systems.
3. Assessing Student Progress
Another important responsibility of a flight instructor is to assess the progress of their students regularly. This helps them to identify areas where the student may need additional training and to adapt their teaching methods to suit individual learning styles.
4. Maintaining Records
Flight instructors must maintain accurate records of their students’ progress, training hours, and any other relevant information. This is essential for tracking student progress and ensuring that all necessary certifications and licences are obtained.
5. Maintaining Currency
A flight instructor must maintain their own currency and proficiency in flying by regularly completing training and staying up to date with changes in regulations and procedures. This helps ensure that they are able to provide accurate and effective instruction to their students.
6. Fostering a Positive Learning Environment
A flight instructor must create a positive and supportive learning environment for their students. This involves building a good rapport with them, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging their progress. By fostering a positive learning environment, the flight instructor can help their students feel confident and motivated, leading to better learning outcomes.
How to Become a Flight Instructor
Becoming a flight instructor in India is a great career choice for those who have completed their Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and are looking for an exciting opportunity in the aviation world. To become a flight instructor, one must meet the flight Instructor requirements set by the DGCA.
1. Qualifications
Valid CPL/ATPL issued by DGCA, Valid class 1 medical and a requirement of 100 hours of PIC (which is already covered in the DGCA CPL)
2. Additional Training
A candidate has to go through additional training for getting the Instructor Rating endorsement on her/his CPL, which includes 20 hours of patter flying, written examination and a oral test conducted by DGCA. Below are the subjects that are prescribed by DGCA for the examination.
- Techniques of applied instructions,
- Assessment of student’s performance in subjects in which ground training is given,
- Elements of effective teaching,
- Student evaluation and testing,
- Lesson planning,
- Usage of training aids which includes Flight simulators,
- Analysis and correction of student errors,
- Human performance relevant to Flight instruction which includes principles of threat and error management,
- Hazards involved in systems malfunction in aircraft.
3. Gain Instructional Flying Experience
Competency Check
At least 20 hours of Instructional flying done in the preceding 18 months.
Cost and Duration
The Instructor Rating course typically takes around 4 weeks to complete and costs about four lakhs.
4. Progress Your Career
Career Progression
Starting from Assistant Flight Instructor (AFI), one can expect to become a Flight Instructor (FI) in about a year with about 500 hours of instructional flying. Then, one can go on to become a Deputy Chief Flying Instructor (Dy. CFI) and Chief Flying Instructor (CFI) in about five years from the beginning of the journey.
Examinership
One can also opt for Examinership which allows an individual to conduct skill tests of both students and instructors.
5. Consider the Benefits
High Demand
Boom in the aviation sector coupled with handsome salaries and perks that Flying Schools offer these days.
Coveted Post
Being a CFI in a Flight School is a coveted post that only Certified Flying Instructors can take.
Additional Skills Needed To Succeed as a Flight Instructor
As a flight instructor, having the necessary technical knowledge and instructional ability is essential to train and shape future pilots. However, there are also additional skills that can greatly contribute to a successful career as a flight instructor. In this article, we will explore some of the key skills that are important for a flight instructor to possess.
1. Effective Communication Skills
The ability to communicate effectively is crucial for a flight instructor as they need to provide clear instructions to their students. This involves not only conveying technical information but also being able to adapt to different learning styles and personalities of each student. A good instructor can simplify complex concepts and explain them in a way that students can easily understand.
2. Strong Problem-Solving Skills
Flight instructors need to be quick thinkers and have the ability to solve problems that arise during a flight lesson. This may include handling unexpected situations, such as mechanical malfunctions or weather changes. Instructors must have the ability to make quick decisions and prioritise safety above all else.
3. Patience and Empathy
Learning to fly can be a stressful and challenging experience for students. It is essential for instructors to have patience and empathy towards their students. This means taking the time to listen to their concerns and frustrations, and providing encouragement and support throughout the learning process. Being able to maintain a calm and positive demenour can help create a comfortable learning environment and build trust between the instructor and student.
4. Continuous Learning
The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and flight instructors need to keep themselves up-to-date with the latest regulations, technologies, and teaching methods. It is important for instructors to have a passion for learning and to continuously seek out opportunities to improve their skills and knowledge.
How Garg Aviation can help You Become A flight Instructor?
If you aspire to become a Flight Instructor, Garg Aviation Limited (GAL) is a flight training academy that can help you realise your dream. Garg Aviation Limited offers courses for CPL, PPL, Multi-Engine and Flight Instructor, which can be instrumental in achieving your career goals. Their state-of-the-art infrastructure, well-equipped simulators, and experienced trainers help aspiring instructors to get the required endorsements on their CPL and acquire skills necessary to excel in their field. With a proven track record of successful placements, Garg Aviation Limited can be your ideal partner in your journey towards becoming a certified flight instructor.
Conclusion
Being a successful flight instructor requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to communicate effectively, problem-solve, be patient and empathetic towards students, and have a passion for continuous learning. Possessing these additional skills can help instructors create a positive and effective learning experience for their students, and ultimately shape the next generation of pilots.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering becoming a flight instructor in India, there are likely many questions you have about the requirements, job prospects, and career options available. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about becoming a flight instructor in India.
1. What are the eligibility requirements to become a Flight Instructor in India?
Eligibility requirements for becoming a Flight Instructor in India include a valid CPL/ATPL, Class 1 medical, and at least 100 hours of PIC.
2. Is there a demand for flight instructors in India?
Yes, there is a high demand for Flight Instructors in India due to the recent boom in the aviation industry.
3. Is there a maximum age limit for becoming a Flight Instructor in India?
There is no maximum age limit for becoming a Flight Instructor in India, as long as the individual meets the eligibility requirements.
4. What are some of the career options available for Flight Instructors in India?
Career options for Flight Instructors in India include Deputy Chief Flying Instructor (Dy. CFI), Chief Flying Instructor (CFI), and Examinership.
5. Can someone become a flight instructor without having prior flying experience?
No, prior flying experience is necessary to become a Flight Instructor, but one must go through additional training to obtain an Instructor Rating endorsement on their CPL.