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Flight Instructor Jobs in Suffolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Cotulla Education

A&P Mechanic Instructor

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$36/hr

Whether you spent your career on a flight line, in a hangar, or supporting heavy maintenance operations, you've built skills that are irreplaceable - and we provide a structured 5-day paid instructor ...

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All JobsFlight Instructor JobsFlight Instructor Jobs in Suffolk, VA

Flight Instructor information

See Suffolk, VA salary details

$23.8K

$90K

$138.4K

How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor in Suffolk, VA is $90,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long does it take to become a flight instructor?

Becoming a flight instructor typically requires obtaining a commercial pilot certificate, accumulating around 250 hours of flight time, and completing instructor training, which can take several months to a year depending on the individual's schedule and progress. Once certified, flight instructors often continue to build flight hours and experience for career advancement.

What is the difference between Flight Instructor vs Pilot?

AspectFlight InstructorPilot
Required CertificationsCertified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificateCommercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, training aircraft, instructional settingsAirlines, charter companies, cargo, private flights
Employer & Industry UsageFlight training academies, flight schoolsAirlines, charter services, corporate aviation

While both Flight Instructors and Pilots operate aircraft, Flight Instructors focus on training and certifying new pilots, requiring specific instructional certifications. Pilots typically operate aircraft for transportation or commercial purposes, holding higher-level licenses. The roles often overlap in aircraft operation but differ mainly in purpose and certification requirements.

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

To thrive as a Flight Instructor, you need comprehensive aeronautical knowledge, flight proficiency, and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate. Familiarity with flight simulators, aviation weather systems, and logbook management software is commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to different learning styles are crucial soft skills. These capabilities ensure effective and safe pilot training, fostering student confidence and aviation safety standards.

What is the 5 hour rule for CFI?

The 5 hour rule for a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) refers to the requirement that CFIs must log at least 5 hours of flight training with each student before endorsing them for solo flight or certain checkrides. This ensures adequate instruction time and skill development before students fly solo or progress further in their training.

What are Flight Instructors?

Flight Instructors are certified pilots who teach student pilots how to fly aircraft safely and efficiently. They provide both ground instruction and in-flight training, covering topics such as aviation regulations, aircraft operation, navigation, and emergency procedures. Flight Instructors play a crucial role in helping students gain the skills and experience needed to earn pilot licenses and ratings. They are responsible for ensuring that students understand safety protocols and develop the confidence to operate aircraft independently.

What Is a Flight Instructor?

A Flight Instructor teaches students to fly an aircraft utilizing in-class instruction, a flight simulator, and through test airplane flights. Flight Instructors train students on the physics of aerodynamics, how to manage the navigation and emergency systems, and provide pre- and post-flight checklists. The training process also covers radio procedures and includes practice flights. Flight Instructors are certified pilots themselves, often with hundreds or thousands of hours of flight time, and must remain current on all training and requirements.

How can I become a flight instructor?

To become a flight instructor, you must hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, accumulate the required flight hours, and obtain a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate from the FAA or relevant authority. This process involves passing written and practical exams, demonstrating teaching ability, and meeting age and medical requirements. Flight instructors typically teach students in flight schools or training centers, helping them gain experience and meet certification standards.

Is there a demand for flight instructors?

The demand for flight instructors remains steady due to ongoing pilot training needs and pilot shortages in the aviation industry. Many flight schools and training centers seek qualified instructors to help students obtain certifications such as the private and commercial pilot licenses, making it a viable career path for those with proper certifications and experience.

What are some common challenges Flight Instructors face when working with student pilots, and how can they address them?

Flight Instructors often encounter students with varying learning styles and confidence levels, which can make it challenging to tailor lessons effectively. Weather conditions and scheduling constraints can also disrupt training plans, requiring flexibility and adaptability. To address these challenges, instructors regularly assess each student's progress, adapt their teaching techniques, and maintain clear communication to ensure safety and comprehension. Building rapport and fostering a supportive learning environment helps students overcome anxiety and develop their skills more effectively.
More about Flight Instructor jobs
What cities near Suffolk, VA are hiring for Flight Instructor jobs? Cities near Suffolk, VA with the most Flight Instructor job openings:
Flight Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Instructor job openings in Suffolk, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,012 per year, or $43.3 per hour.
Temporary Flight Instructor

Temporary Flight Instructor

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC • On-site

Temporary

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Position Number
Working Title
Temporary Flight Instructor
Division
Academic Affairs
Department/Unit
Department of Aviation and Emergency Management
Section
Aviation Science
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Department of Technology offers baccalaureate degree programs in Aviation Science and Engineering Technology. The students majoring in other disciplines can minor in any of these degree programs. The Bachelor of Science degree programs are designed to prepare technical professionals for employment in industry, business, government, and education. An experienced and dedicated faculty helps each student on an individual basis to choose the curriculum that best meets his/her career interests. The department is committed to promoting
excellence in teaching, research, services, and scholarly activities. ECSU offers the only four year Aviation Science degree program in the State of North Carolina and provides specializations in Flight Education/Professional Pilot, Air Traffic Control, Aviation Electronics (Avionics), Aviation Management, and Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). Each of these areas
of study is specifically designed to meet the requirements that have been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Description of Work
This is a general posting established for the purpose of capturing applicants selected for this role within policy. All aspects of the relevant positions are captured in the position description which may be provided upon request.
Competencies/Knowledge Skills, and Abilities Required in this Position
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications of the position as listed in the position description.
Possess Aircraft piloting skills including familiarity with and ability to perform required flight maneuvers and procedures.
Possess the knowledge and ability to apply effective instructional technique in the classroom and in flight.
Possess the knowledge of appropriate Federal Aviation Regulations, University Academic, administrative and operational procedures and requirements.
Possess the ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced and noisy environment while exercising sound judgment at all times.
Possess a current FAA Medical Certificate.
License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation
Management Preferences
Certifications highly desired - FAA Certified Flight Instructor/Instrument
CFI, CFII, MEI, Airplane Single and Multiengine, Instrument Airplane
Position Recruitment Range
Position Category
Temporary/Student
Position Status
Temporary
Work Hours (i.e. 8:00-5:00pm, etc.)
Monday-Friday (8a-4p), Occasional weekends
Work Schedule (i.e. Mon-Fri, Rotating Shifts, Etc.)
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
ATS00109P
Job Open Date
01/01/2026
Job Close Date
06/30/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicant
AA/EEO Statement
Elizabeth City State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The University does not discriminate in access to its educational programs and activities, or with respect to hiring or the terms and conditions of employment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, political affiliation, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or sexual orientation.
Background Check Statement
Any offer of employment to a successful candidate will be conditioned upon the University's receipt of a satisfactory criminal background report.
Eligibility for Employment
Proper documentation of identity and eligibility for employment will be required before the hiring process can be completed. ECSU is an E-Verify participant.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.ecsu.edu/postings/5054

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