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Flight Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lynn University

The Chief Flight Instructor is also responsible for required aircraft maintenance and compliance with all service directories and recurring service and inspections. The Chief Flight Instructor will ...

Epic Aircraft

Flight Instructor

Bend, OR · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

WHAT YOU'LL DO As part of the Flight Department, the Flight Instructor/Pilot will instruct in and operate the fastest single-engine turboprop in the world, the Epic E1000, providing safe aircraft ...

Vectored Approach

Flight Instructor

Austin, TX · On-site

$46 - $55/hr

Position Overview As a Flight Instructor at Vectored Approach, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of aviators through hands-on, high-quality instruction. We are seeking ...

Marshall University

Flight Instructor

Huntington, WV · On-site

$38K - $50K/yr

The Certified Flight Instructor helps maintain quality instruction across the flight school by providing student training, consistent record keeping, and other duties as assigned by the Chief Flight ...

Cirrus Aircraft

Flight Instructor 4

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

DESCRIPTION The Flight Instructor provides industry-leading, learner-centric flight training to Cirrus customers. To meet the demands of discerning customers who look for the absolute best, training ...

Cirrus Aircraft

Flight Instructor II

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

Job Summary The Flight Instructor provides industry-leading, learner-centric flight training to Cirrus customers. The training follows a structured syllabus with proprietary course material for ...

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Flight Instructor information

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$25K

$94.6K

$145.5K

How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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.

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.
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Flight Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,620 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Flight Instructor (Multiple Positions)

Flight Instructor (Multiple Positions)

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS • On-site

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Job Title Flight Instructor (Multiple Positions) Working Title Flight Instructor (Multiple Positions) Position Type Staff Department Commercial Aviation Posting Number 201200957 Full or Part Time Part Time Benefit Eligible No If Other, Please Explain: Tenure/Non-Tenure Track Non-Tenure Track Salary Basis Hourly If Other, Please Explain:
Position Summary Information
Responsibilities
Delta State flight courses include: Primary single engine, Instrument Airplane, Multi-Engine Instrument add-on to Private Certificate, Initial Commercial Multi-Engine, Single-Engine add-on to Commercial Certificate, Initial Multi-Engine Flight Instructor, Single-Engine Add-on to CFI, and Instrument Flight Instructor.
The Flight Instructor is responsible for providing student training in accordance with Delta State University's Commercial Aviation Department's FAA Part 141 Policies: FOM, Appropriate TCO, and Flight Instructor Manual.
Qualifications
Must have a Current FAA Certified Flight Instructor, Single Engine Certificate.
Must have a Current Second Class FAA Medical
Prefer in addition to CFI Single engine: Instrument Flight Instructor and Multi Engine Flight Instructor
Salary Commensurate with experience, qualifications, and university's resources. Minimum Qualifications
Must have a Current FAA Certified Flight Instructor Certificate
Must have a Current Second Class FAA Medical
Preferred Qualifications
Prefer a Current FAA Certified Flight Instructor, Single Engine Certificate,
Multi Engine Certificate, Instrument Instructor Certificate.
Must have a Current Second Class FAA Medical
Prefer in addition to CFI Single engine: Instrument Flight Instructor and Multi Engine Flight Instructor
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please submit copies of:
FAA Flight Certificates (front and back)
FAA Medical
Three letters of recommendation are required.
Requests for letters of recommendation will automatically be generated to the references you list on the application. They will be sent a link to allow them to submit letter directly to application.
It is the applicant's responsibility to follow up with the references to ensure the letters have been submitted.
Additional Information
This position is advertised continuously because of multiple hires made throughout the year.
Posting Detail Information
Open Date 10/04/2019 Close Date Open Until Filled No

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