CFI Archives | Page 4 of 26

The Piper Cherokee that crashed September 28, 2022, in Pennsylvania was largely destroyed in a postcrash fire. [Credit: NTSB]

Illegal CFI Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter After Fatal Crash

Man whose certificates were revoked for ‘lack of demonstrated competence’ continued to instruct, leading to a 2022 accident that killed a student pilot.

An instructor and a student preflight a Cessna 152 before a lesson. [Credit: Richard Steiger]

What to Expect Your First Five Hours as a Student Pilot

Here are some tips for managing expectations when you begin flight training.

How the CFI addresses the struggling learner separates the professional CFIs and experience builders from the time builders. [Pixabay]

Even Instructors Must Stay in the Learner’s Seat

Experienced CFIs also benefit from ongoing improvement and proficiency flights.

Pilots who learn tests by rote may get a pocketful of certificates but often don't acquire the skills, judgement, and confidence they need to build experience. [Adobe Stock]

Perils of Flying by Rote: Why Judgment Trumps Memorization

Even experienced pilots can fall into the trap of habitual repetitive actions in the cockpit.

This Guimbal Cabri G2 is about to take off. [Courtesy: Sam Winer]

Why the Guimbal Cabri G2 Is Tiny But Mighty for Pilot Training

Flight schools love the helicopter for its advanced safety, low costs, and seamless turbine transition.

Don’t Learn or Teach Flying the Hard Way

Instructors and examiners must ensure they protect themselves in many aspects.

There are some tips you can follow to make that first dual cross-country flight a smooth one. [Credit: Stephen Yeates]

When Is a Student Pilot Ready for First Solo Cross-Country?

CFIs must carefully consider when it’s time to ‘let them out of the nest.’

NTSB’s final report on the 2023 fatal crash in Kentucky says the CFI was aware of thunderstorms in the area before the deadly flight. [Credit: NTSB]

NTSB Blames CFI for Deadly Crash

Agency determines the instructor was aware of thunderstorms before takeoff with student pilot in 2023 Kentucky flight.

A first flight can turn into pilot training.

How to Avoid Flight School Frustrations and Common Pitfalls

Sometimes a CFI needs to put themself in the learner’s position.

An instructor should consider a change if they are not getting enough hours due to aircraft availability, student load, politics, or not getting the type of experience you need. [Courtesy: Meg Godlewski]

Launch CFI Career by Looking for Opportunity and Experience

If you want to increase your chances of being hired at a flight school, the more instructor ratings you have, the better.