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Contract Flight Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A team of 60 employees there provides sales, marketing, contracts, customer support and ... Airbus Miami currently has capacity for additional Flight Instructors to deliver training in the ...

A team of 60 employees there provides sales, marketing, contracts, customer support and ... Airbus Miami currently has capacity for additional Flight Instructors to deliver training in the ...

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Contract Flight Instructor information

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$25K

$94.6K

$145.5K

How much do contract flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract flight instructor in the United States is $94,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Flight Instructors, and how can they be managed?

Contract Flight Instructors often encounter challenges such as fluctuating student schedules, adapting to different aircraft types, and maintaining clear communication with both students and flight school management. Flexibility and strong organizational skills are key to managing these hurdles. Instructors should proactively coordinate with students to set reliable training sessions, keep their qualifications current for various aircraft, and foster an open line of communication with all parties to ensure smooth operations and effective learning.

What is the difference between Contract Flight Instructor vs Part-Time Flight Instructor?

AspectContract Flight InstructorPart-Time Flight Instructor
CredentialsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)Commercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed or hired per contract, variable locationsPart-time employment at flight schools or flight training centers
Employer/Industry UsageHired directly by flight schools or as independent contractorsEmployed by flight schools on a part-time basis

Contract Flight Instructors typically work independently or on a contractual basis, often at multiple locations, while Part-Time Flight Instructors are employed by flight schools for limited hours. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in employment structure and work arrangement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Flight Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Flight Instructor, you need a valid commercial pilot's license with instructor ratings, in-depth knowledge of aviation regulations, and significant flight experience. Familiarity with flight simulators, electronic logbooks, and training management systems is typically required, along with up-to-date certifications such as CFI or CFII. Exceptional communication, patience, and adaptability are essential soft skills for effectively teaching and mentoring diverse student pilots. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, effective flight training and help students achieve proficiency while maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are Contract Flight Instructors?

Contract Flight Instructors are certified pilots who provide flight training services on a contractual basis, rather than as full-time employees of a flight school or organization. They may work independently or for multiple employers, offering instruction in various types of aircraft or simulators. Their responsibilities typically include teaching students how to fly, preparing them for pilot certification, and ensuring adherence to aviation safety standards. Contract Flight Instructors often have flexible schedules and may also assist with recurrent training or specialized courses.
More about Contract Flight Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Flight Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Contract Flight Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Flight Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Flight Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Flight Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Flight Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 62% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,620 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument (CFII) Entry

Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument (CFII) Entry

AAR Corporation

Fort Novosel, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


AAR Corp rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 53 rated aviation services


Job description

AAR instructors teach, coach, and mentor student pilots through intensive training designed to prepare them for their future roles as military aviators. Despite flight training's inherent risk, safety remains paramount in every aspect of our Rotary Wing Flight Training culture.

What you will be responsible for:  
    Remove and install aircraft subsystem assemblies such as engines, rotors, gearboxes, transmissions, mechanical flight controls and their components.
    Service and lubricate aircraft and subsystems.
    Prepare aircraft for inspections and maintenance checks.
    Perform scheduled inspections and assist in performing special inspections.
    Perform limited maintenance operational checks and assist with diagnosing and troubleshooting aircraft subsystems using special tools and equipment as required.
    Use and perform operator maintenance on tools, special tools and aircraft ground support equipment. 
    Prepare forms and records related to aircraft maintenance. 
    Remove and disassemble defective parts of the aircraft.
    Maintain the supplies and perform preventive maintenance.
    Perform supervisory duties over Aircraft Mechanic I and II personnel, as required.
    Perform additional duties, including maintenance duties, as assigned.
    Adhere to company policies and safety programs (safety-first mentality)

What you will need to be successful in this role:  
    High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
    Must possess one of the following:
     o    ICAO equivalent or FAA commercial pilot certificate and an ICAO equivalent or FAA flight instructor certificate with rotorcraft category, helicopter class, and instrument helicopter ratings on both certificates.
     o    Graduate of any DOD rotary wing instructor pilot course for rotary wing aircraft.
    Total Flight Time - 500 hours. Flight time as pilot-in-command or second-in-command (per FAR 61.51); as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Pilot (PI) (Per AR 95-1) in aircraft of any weight or category is creditable for this requirement.
    Must certify having a combination of 75 hours of hooded instrument, flight simulator instrument, or weather pilot time.
     Must have instructed students in instrument flight training.
    Instructor Time - 150 hours.
     Must have a current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate prior to beginning training.
    US Citizenship is required for facility credentials/authorization to work at this facility
 

The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary: 
    Competitive salary 
    Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
    401(k) retirement plan with company match
    Generous paid time off program
    Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Physical Demands/Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

    Must be physically able to perform duties and responsibilities of the classification. 
    Must be able to work with required materials without debilitating irritation to skin, eyes or respiratory system while wearing the required personal protective equipment
    Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, including flight bags and operational equipment.
    Sufficient strength and dexterity to operate aircraft controls, doors, and emergency systems.
    Good vision (correctable to 20/20) and hearing, as required by FAA standards.
    Ability to sit for extended periods while supporting flight operations.
    Primarily onboard aircraft with periods in airport terminals and operational facilities.
    Exposure to varying ambient conditions during pre-flight, flight, and post-flight.

AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

This position is being recruited in support of a proposal and is contingent upon contract award.


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