Register

What if I Don’t Like My Flight Instructor?

It's not just your problem, and it's definitely solvable. Phillipe de Kemmeter
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • It is common for flight students to be poorly matched with instructors, leading to communication issues, ineffective teaching, or frustration.
  • Students should not give up on flight training if they are unhappy with their instructor, but instead actively seek a better match for their learning style.
  • Strategies for finding a suitable instructor include committing to a few initial lessons, asking for recommendations from Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs), checking for Gold Seal or Master CFIs, or consulting the Chief Flight Instructor at their flight school.
  • Students are the "consumer" and should feel empowered to communicate their needs or change instructors if necessary to ensure a positive and effective learning experience.
See a mistake? Contact us.

So you’ve started flight training, but it’s just not working the way you expected. You’ve got a sinking feeling that you and your flight instructor just aren’t communicating like you should—or you have a downright distaste for spending any time at all with this person who is serving as a primary mentor in your aviation life.

Amy Laboda

Amy Laboda began flying in 1978 and is a flight instructor, with credentials that range from a gyroplane rating to an airline transport pilot certificate.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE