Shaping the next generation of pilots and teaching others how to fly is a rewarding career. Leading Edge Flight Academy has an exceptional class of highly experienced, enthusiastic certified flight instructors (CFI). It’s a rewarding job filled with variety and excitement as you help students take to the skies (and the classroom) to achieve their loftiest goals. If you’ve considered becoming a CFI in Oregon, strap into the cockpit with us to learn about the daily responsibilities and roles of the job.

Specialties May Vary, But the Fun is Consistent!

CFIs have various flight specialties, including private pilot, commercial pilot, and instrument rating instruction. A flight instructor’s goal is to instill the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence in their students to help them navigate the skies safely and competently. At Leading Edge, we exceed the bare minimum requirements of other flight programs. We cover the multifaceted aspects of career training for pilots that help our graduates prepare to enter the workforce with success. 

Daily Responsibilities of a CFI in Oregon

Ground School Instruction

A less advertised but equally important aspect of flight instruction is ground school. Hitting the books is as important as flight time in gaining the experience and skills necessary to be a good pilot. In the classroom, CFIs instruct students on aerodynamics, navigation, weather patterns, and FAA regulations. This theoretical foundation isn’t just about book smarts. It’s about the daily practical insights students need to operate aircraft safely as current and future pilots.

Taking to the Skies 

The most exciting parts of a certified flight instructor’s responsibilities are with hands-on flight training. In the cockpit, instructors guide their students through various in-flight maneuvers, takeoffs, landings, and emergency procedures. They offer real-time feedback and correction, ensuring their students develop the resilience and critical decision-making skills to safely and confidently operate an aircraft.

Flight Planning

CFIs assist students in planning flights, teaching them how to analyze weather conditions, calculate fuel requirements, and create navigation plans. In addition to the digital tools, pilots also learn about manual navigational tools to give them the depth and breadth of understanding a pilot needs for any situation. 

Assessments and Checkrides

Regular assessments are a key part of a CFI’s routine. Instructors prepare their students for flight check rides, identifying areas for improvement and tailoring their instruction to address specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that each student receives the one-on-one attention they need to thrive as a pilot.

Regulatory Compliance

CFIs are responsible for staying briefed on industry best practices and the latest aviation regulations. This equips students to enter the workforce under today’s safety protocols, airspace restrictions, and any changes in aviation laws.

Sharing a Passion for Aviation While Logging Flight Hours 

The best part of the job for most CFIs is sharing enthusiasm with others. It’s a chance to foster a love for aviation in a new generation of pilots. In addition to investing in the futures of others, many CFIs are actively working toward their own career goals. 

Building flight time toward commercial flight hours is a significant perk of the job, allowing instructors to log the flight hours necessary for pursuing higher-level certifications and positions within the aviation industry. Not to mention, becoming a flight instructor is a great networking opportunity! You meet many students, invest in their progress over the years, and build a vast network of relationships among aviators nationwide. 

Join the Ranks of Leading Edge Flight Academy’s CFIs in Oregon

Now that you’re briefed on the job, consider joining our ranks at Leading Edge as a certified flight instructor! We prefer student graduates of our flight academy for instructor roles but are also open to outside candidates. If you’re interested in exploring more about working as a CFI in Oregon, check out our careers page or message if you’re ready to start your aviation career!