Michael Wildes says having instructional knowledge is only part of the job of a flight instructor. Credit: Adobe Stock
Key Takeaways:
Flight instructors face a critical challenge in assessing students' psychological and emotional readiness for flight, beyond just technical skills, a concern highlighted by tragic incidents involving mental health.
The increasing number of both very young and older flight instructors presents a dilemma, as younger instructors may lack the life experience to fully assess students' character, while older instructors might misunderstand how younger students express themselves.
The article emphasizes that instructors must develop strong emotional intelligence alongside their technical knowledge to effectively understand, manage, and empathize with students, which is crucial for ensuring safety and student progression.
“How do you manage to trust a new student?! You must be so brave!”
That’s what a family member asked me recently, and I knew what they meant. It wasn’t a speculative question. Indeed, this might be the most important question instructors have to answer each day.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
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.
