At Skyborne, our training department opens the door to a fulfilling future in aviation. Maybe you’ve spent years in the cockpit and are now looking for more stability, or perhaps unexpected challenges have redirected your path. Either way, becoming a ground or flight instructor, offers you the chance to stay connected to the industry you love, and allows you to use your experience and passion to train the next generation of pilots.
Lost medical certificate
Grounded by a medical? A lost or failed medical can feel like a setback, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your aviation journey. Have you considered sharing your passion and expertise as a Theoretical Knowledge Instructor? No medical required to continue your career in aviation.
Retiring from a long flying career?
Your aviation expertise doesn’t retire — it evolves. Take your passion and experience and turn it into practical, career-shaping knowledge for trainee pilots. Help them succeed and keep your career in aviation moving forward.
Leaving a career in the military?
Your operational experience, decision-making under pressure, and procedural knowledge are exactly what tomorrow’s pilots need. We offer structured instructor pathways, administrative support, and opportunities to train in both simulators and live aircraft. Continue your aviation career by developing others.
why you should work at skyborne
Hear from Skyborne Flight Instructor, Ros Ibbotson on life as a Flight Instructor at Skyborne
Meet Richard, one of our Theoretical Knowledge Instructors, as he shares what he loves about working at Skyborne
Why join us
Flexible part-time or full-time instructor roles to suit your lifestyle.
Two locations: Gloucestershire and Bournemouth
Ongoing instructor training, resources, and supportive team environment.
Competitive pay and opportunities to progress into senior training roles.
Stable working conditions and set hours.
Guide motivated students who are eager to learn from your experience.
Work in state-of-the-art facilities, purpose built to provide the very best learning experience.
Your pathway to becoming a Theoretical Knowledge Instructor
At Skyborne, we make it simple for experienced aviators to transition into the classroom. Whether you’re stepping back from flying or seeking a new direction in your aviation career, here’s how you can become a Theoretical Knowledge Instructor.
Step 1: Apply Your Experience
Your flight hours (where applicable), operational knowledge, and industry experience form the foundation for becoming an instructor.
You will have:
- Obtained your PPL and completed all relevant exams, or industry/military experience
- Experience in delivering ATPL Theoretical Knowledge Instruction (preferable but not essential)
- Experience in developing, revising, and overseeing course materials and examinations (preferable but not essential)
- A supportive and approachable nature, be positive, motivational and adept with mentoring and guiding trainee pilots
- The ability to actively contribute to continuous improvement and standardisation of training delivery
No medical is required to become a Theoretical Knowledge Instructor.
Step 2: Gain Your Instructor Rating (if required)
If you don’t already hold a teaching qualification, we’ll support you through the process of obtaining the required instructor approvals.
Step 3: Train with Skyborne
You’ll receive specialist training in delivering theoretical knowledge in line with Skyborne’s high standards, teaching techniques, and classroom management to help you succeed in your new role.
Step 4: Start Inspiring Future Pilots
Begin teaching aspiring aviators, sharing your insights and shaping the next generation with your expertise and passion.
For more information about Skyborne Airline Academy and our career opportunities, click here. We look forward to hearing from you!
