Program · FI / CFI

Instructor Rating

An advanced certification for experienced pilots who want to train and mentor new aviators. Instructing is also a common way for newly licensed pilots to build flight hours.

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Eligibility, medicals and recognition

Before applying

Existing licence, ratings, experience, theory, instructor training and tests depend on the issuing authority. Confirm all prerequisites with the approved provider. A newly issued CPL by itself is not permission to instruct.

Medical planning

Maintain the medical and language requirements applicable to the underlying licence and instructional privileges. Get the exact requirements from the issuing authority and examiner.

Using the qualification in India

An overseas FI/CFI rating neither grants an Indian instructor rating nor permission to work abroad. The DGCA conversion CAR separately addresses instructor experience and competency checks for Indian AFIR/FIR. Employment also requires lawful work authorisation and an employer.

DGCA CAR Section 7, Series G, Part I (2019 document)

What the training covers

1
Pedagogy
How adults learn, and how to brief and debrief effectively.
2
Flight instruction
Teaching manoeuvres and procedures from the instructor's seat.
3
Student evaluation
Assessing progress fairly and safely.

Who it suits

Licensed pilots who want to teach
CPL holders looking to build hours through instruction
Pilots interested in long-term training careers

How GSA Aviation helps

Checking eligibility based on your existing licence and hours
Choosing a country where the rating is offered
Visa and admission support

Please note: requirements, costs and timelines vary by country and institution and change over time. Pilot licensing, AME licensing and academic recognition are different processes. The country links are research guides, not confirmation that this program has a current intake there. No program guarantees employment.