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Are you passionate about aviation and eager to share your knowledge and skills with aspiring pilots?

Becoming a flight instructor can be an incredibly rewarding career path that allows you to play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of aviators. In this quick guide, we’ll explore the world of instructor ratings, unveiling the responsibilities and opportunities of this esteemed certification.

What is an Instructor Rating?

An Instructor Rating allows you to teach someone how to fly.

It‘s an endorsement granted by Transport Canada to pilots with exceptional flying skills, knowledge, and the ability to communicate and instruct others effectively. Holding an instructor rating opens up a world of opportunities to share your passion for flying, mentor students, and contribute to the growth and safety of the aviation community. As an instructor, you become a trusted guide, imparting your expertise and helping others navigate the skies with confidence and proficiency.

Who makes a successful Class IV Instructor candidate? 

Someone who:

• Finds enjoyment in the process of learning and teaching;
• Enjoys working with people from a variety of backgrounds and is committed to helping people succeed;
• Has a deep interest in exploring and increasing knowledge and skills in aviation; and
• Enjoys flying in all its aspects, both practical and theoretical.

Transport Canada Minimum Requirements

• Commercial Pilot License or Airline Transport Pilot License, with a valid Class 1 Medical
• 25 hours of Instructor Rating Ground School 
• 70% on the AIRAF written examination
• 30 hours of dual flight instruction with the holder of a Class 1 Instructor Rating 
• Complete a flight test to the standard described in the Flight Test Guide – Flight Instructor Rating

Job Opportunities for Flight Instructors

Job opportunities for flight instructors are plentiful and diverse. As a flight instructor, you can pursue various career paths and work in different settings. Some of the job opportunities available include:

Flight Schools

Flight schools are the most common employment option for flight instructors. These schools offer training programs to aspiring pilots who can learn from experienced instructors. Whether it’s a large aviation academy or a small local flight school, there are numerous opportunities to work as an instructor.

Universities and Colleges

Many post-secondary institutions partner with aviation programs to hire flight instructors who can provide practical flight training to their students. These positions often come with the added benefit of being affiliated with an academic institution.

Airline Training Departments

Major airlines often have training departments that employ experienced pilots as instructors. These instructors train new hires, conduct recurrent training for current pilots and ensure all pilots maintain their proficiency.

Corporate Aviation

In the corporate aviation sector, companies operating private jets may employ flight instructors to train their pilots. This could involve initial type rating training, recurrent training, or specialized instruction on specific aircraft models.

Government and Military

Government agencies, such as the military or law enforcement organizations, may employ flight instructors to train their personnel in aviation-related roles. These positions offer unique challenges and opportunities to work with specialized aircraft and highly skilled individuals.

International Opportunities

Flight instructors often have the option to pursue international job opportunities. Many countries worldwide have a growing demand for flight training and experienced instructors are sought after to meet this demand.

The demand for qualified instructors is expected to remain strong, providing a stable and rewarding career path within the aviation industry.

Flight Instructor Rating in Canada

Obtaining an instructor rating opens up exciting opportunities in the aviation industry. As a flight instructor, you can share your passion for flying, shape the skills of aspiring pilots, and contribute to the future of aviation. Whether you desire to work at a flight school, university, airline, or corporate aviation, the demand for qualified instructors remains high.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your aviation career and pursue an instructor rating, explore Select Aviation College’s programs.