Flight Instructor

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Work Tasks

• Plan lessons and teach people how to fly aircraft
• Explain operation of aircraft parts, such as altimeter, tachometer, rudder, and flaps
• Explain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules
• Instruct flying skills in a classroom and in the air
• Work for flight clubs, flying schools, and for the military
• Work with aircraft, in-flight simulators, and weather reports; aircraft parts, like altimeters and tachometers; and manuals, check lists, and FAA regulations

Salary, Size & Growth

• $78,500 average per year ($37.75 per hour)
• A medium occupation (29,900 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.9% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A commercial, helicopter, or airline pilot's license; 18 years of age or older, in good health, and 20/20 vision
• Employers Prefer: Certification for night flying, flying by instruments, and a radio telephone license
• Skills/Courses: Many pilots are trained in the military. Others attend a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-certified civilian flying school.
• Licensing/Certification: Certification as a flight instructor requires a Class IV license.