What does CFI mean in UNCLASSIFIED

A Chief Flying Instructor (CFI) is a highly trained individual certified to teach student pilots the fundamentals of aviation and ensure they have the necessary skills to become qualified, responsible pilots. A CFI provides instruction in ground school and flight training activities, including demonstrating maneuvers, evaluating student performance and providing feedback.

In order to work as a CFI, applicants must possess an FAA airman's certificate for the aircraft in which they plan to instruct and meet experience requirements determined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Additional qualifications may be required depending on the type of instruction being provided.

Becoming a CFI requires completing flight training programs endorsed by the FAA. Flight schools provide this kind of instruction. After obtaining sufficient piloting experience, flight instructors can take an instructor-rating course under an approved FAA examiner or instructor.

The primary responsibility of a CFI is to ensure that student pilots learn every aspect of safe flying and develop into good aviators while still maintaining safety standards set forth in Federal regulations. Additionally, CFIs must maintain records pertaining to their students' progress and provide periodic reports to their employer or agency outlining each student's achievements during the course of instruction.

To be endorsed as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), you must hold at least an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating and pass an oral exam administered by an FAA-approved Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). This will also require passing both written examinations testing your knowledge on general aviation topics as well as various specific areas related to aircraft procedures for which you intend to train your students.

You must have valid proof of identification, such as driver's license or passport; recent logbook entries; proof of appropriate medical certification; copies of all qualification certificates; copies of completion certificates from any completed courses; evidence that you have completed prerequisites mandated by your school's program policy; background check information; letters from current employers verifying your professional competence; references from previous employers or trainers attesting you meet all qualifications required by FAA regulations; current resume or curriculum vitae detailing personal flying experience.

Yes, having prior teaching experience can be beneficial when applying for jobs as a Chief Flying Instructor because it shows employers that you understand how instructing works and can communicate effectively with students and other team members. Even if it's not directly related instructional experience, any prior teaching experience will be beneficial when trying to stand out from other applicants.

Salaries for Chiefs Flying Instructors vary depending on many factors such as geographic location, type/size of organization you work for and number/type(s)of ratings held but generally salaries range between $35000-$90000 annually plus additional benefits like insurance etc..