Don’t Forget: Flight Instruction Is a Business

Whether working independently or for a school, keeping more than a logbook just comes with the CFI territory

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

As more CFIs take airline gigs, an FAA committee is reconsidering the experience required for a certified flight instructor to be eligible to train another pilot for the CFI rating. Flying

Key Takeaways:

Independent CFIs must transition from an informal flying role to a professional business model, requiring clear payment structures and professional self-perception.
Meticulous record-keeping is crucial for CFIs, covering both detailed training endorsements and instruction given, as well as comprehensive financial records for payments, expenses, and tax compliance.
Establishing a formal business structure (like an LLC), separating personal and business finances, creating clear operational policies, and addressing practical challenges like classroom space are vital for an independent CFI's success and protection.

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“Am I supposed to pay you?”

The independent CFI heard this after completing a flight review for a customer who owned a Cessna 182. The CFI was a relatively low-time instructor. He had spent a little over 2.5 hours with the client and asked for $50, which was considerably less than the C-182 owner would have spent if he went through one of the flight schools at the airport even using his own airplane.