Flight Instructors

Employers

Flight instructors who are in the military are employed by the U.S. government. In the civilian world, flight instructors are typically employed by flight schools or they may work independently, offering lessons on their own. Some instructors may begin by working at an established flight school but have the goal of eventually running their own school. Flight schools are located all across the country, and many airports have them. The warmer months of the year tend to be busiest for flight instructors because this is when it is easiest to take beginners out for training flights. Flight instructors who work in locations where the weather is fairly warm all year usually do not experience such fluctuations. Schools are classified as Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved or nonapproved. This is based on factors such as the amount and type of equipment, personnel, and facilities provided by the school. Many nonapproved schools offer excellent training but do not seek FAA approval simply because of their smaller size or other factors.

Starting Out

Since pilots need to log flying time as one requirement for gaining different certifications, a number of people choose to begin their careers as flight instructors. As they gain flying time and experience they may move on to other positions, such as pilot at a major airline, which is their ultimate goal. Some flight instructors start out with careers as military pilots and then become instructors later in their professional lives. Another way to gain entry into the field is through connections made at flight school. In fact, some students who have impressed their instructors may be offered a job there.