As a pilot, you’ll know from your own flight training just how much difference the right instructor can make. Flight instructors help trainee pilots build confidence, develop sound judgement and progress towards a professional aviation career.
At Skyborne, our instructors play a central role in shaping the next generation of pilots. Fancy moving into the instructor’s seat yourself? Here’s what the role involves and how to get there.
What is a flight instructor?
A flight instructor is a qualified pilot who teaches trainees in the aircraft, in simulators and on the ground.
So, what does a day as an instructor look like?
Your to do list could include:
- Briefing trainees before a flight
- Teaching flying techniques and procedures
- Delivering simulator training
- Debriefing trainees and providing feedback
- Monitoring progress and maintaining training records
- Beyond teaching trainees how to fly, you will also help them to develop the professional standards they’ll carry throughout their careers.
Why should you become a flight instructor?
Are you patient when someone doesn’t get something first time? Can you explain the same idea in a different way? Do you know when to step in and when to let someone work it out?
Flight instruction can be an incredibly rewarding way to continue growing as a pilot while helping someone else achieve their dream.
Teaching also strengthens your own flying. Explaining manoeuvres, identifying errors, adapting to different learning styles and giving constructive feedback require a strong understanding of aviation and a high level of awareness.
How do I become a flight instructor in the UK?
To become a flight instructor in the UK, you’ll need to meet the relevant requirements and complete an approved flight instructor training course. You can find the Skyborne’s criteria here.
If you meet the requirements, you’ll complete specialist instructor training and sit the Assessment of Competence before applying to the CAA for your Flight Instructor certificate.
There’s more than one way to reach the instructor’s seat, too. While some flight instructors progress through commercial pilot training, those coming from a military flying career can build on their existing experience. Skyborne’s Military Conversion Courses help military pilots gain the qualifications required for commercial aviation, after which instructor training could be one direction they choose to take their career.
Could the instructor’s seat be your next move?
If you love flying and get just as much satisfaction from helping someone else succeed, becoming a flight instructor could be an exciting next move.
At Skyborne, you can develop your skills as an instructor while helping the next generation of professional pilots begin their own journey to the flight deck.
To find out more about flight instructor training and career opportunities at Skyborne, click here.
