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What a CFI Wants You to Know: How to Find The Right Fit

When you decide that you’re ready to learn how to fly, finding the right instructor is crucial.

Flight instructors help us all achieve our dreams of learning to fly. Portland Community College
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article highlights the critical and often problematic process of matching flight students with instructors, suggesting a need for a more sophisticated platform similar to Match.com to avoid expensive trial-and-error.
  • Effective flight instructors possess essential qualities beyond technical piloting skills, including integrity, patience, empathy, strong communication, and the humility to admit what they don't know, fostering a better learning environment.
  • Students are encouraged to actively "shop around" and invest time in finding the right instructor match, as this relationship is the most crucial factor for successful and cost-effective flight training, especially in Part 61 settings.
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If the people who created Match.com are looking for another group of people to create connections between, they should develop a meeting place for potential students and flight instructors.

Michael Wildes

Michael Wildes holds a master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Previously, he worked at the university’s flight department as a Flight Check Airman, Assistant Training Manager, and Quality Assurance Mentor. He holds MEI, CFI & CFII ratings. Follow Michael on Twitter @Captainwildes.

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