What Is a Flight Instructor Rating?
What Is a Flight Instructor Rating? Guiding the Next Generation from the Right Seat Every skilled pilot flying the skies today started the same way—beside an instructor. Flight i
What Is a Flight Instructor Rating?
Guiding the Next Generation from the Right Seat
Every skilled pilot flying the skies today started the same way—beside an instructor. Flight instructors are more than just educators; they’re mentors, safety advocates, and gatekeepers of aviation excellence. They don’t just teach flying—they inspire it.
A Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) is more than a credential. It’s a calling for those who want to pass on their knowledge, sharpen their own skills, and play an essential role in shaping the future of aviation.
In this guide, we’ll unpack everything you need to know: who can become a flight instructor, what the requirements are, what privileges the rating grants, and why so many pilots choose to pursue this rewarding path.
Flight Instructor Rating Explained
Definition and Purpose
A Flight Instructor Rating allows a licensed pilot to provide flight instruction to students and fellow pilots. With this qualification, instructors can teach pilot licence candidates, help other pilots gain endorsements or ratings, and supervise solo flights. It’s the official green light to move from being the student in the left seat to the mentor in the right.
Who Can Become a Flight Instructor?
Eligible Licences
To pursue a Flight Instructor Rating in Australia, you must already hold one of the following licences:
- Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
- Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL)
This ensures candidates already have a solid foundation in aeronautical knowledge and flight experience before teaching others.
Privilege Limitations Based on Licence Type
If you only hold a PPL, your instructional privileges will be restricted. PPL holders can provide training for specific endorsements, but not for full licence training like the RPL, PPL, or CPL. To train full-time or provide broader instruction, a CPL or ATPL is required.
Requirements to Obtain a Flight Instructor Rating
Educational Requirements
Applicants must complete an approved instructor training course. Alternatively, those with a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment or a tertiary qualification in education may satisfy the teaching competency requirements—but still need to complete aviation-specific training and testing.
Theory Exam
All candidates must pass the Pilot Instructor Rating Exam – Common. This exam focuses on teaching methodologies, air law, and instructional techniques, ensuring that instructors not only know what to teach but also how to teach it effectively.
Training and Endorsements
The FIR training program must include at least one training endorsement, such as:
- Basic flight training
- Instrument flying
- Night flying
Each endorsement allows instruction in its respective flight category. You can add more endorsements over time to expand your instructional scope.
Flight Test
To complete the rating, you must pass a Flight Instructor Rating Flight Test with a qualified examiner. The test evaluates both your flying skills and your ability to deliver instruction clearly, safely, and confidently.
What Can You Do With a Flight Instructor Rating?
Privileges & Responsibilities
With a Flight Instructor Rating, you are authorised to:
- Provide instruction for licences, endorsements, and ratings
- Supervise and approve student solo flights
- Conduct flight reviews and refresher training
- Instruct using simulators (if endorsed)
Instructors are expected to uphold safety, maintain accurate student records, and serve as role models in professionalism and aviation knowledge.
Aircraft Category Specifics
Want to instruct in a different aircraft category (e.g., helicopter, multi-engine, etc.)? You’ll need to meet category-specific flight experience requirements and pass an additional flight test in that category to extend your FIR privileges.
Why Become a Flight Instructor?
Career Benefits
For many commercial pilots, becoming an instructor is the perfect way to build hours, stay sharp, and earn a stable income between flying jobs. It’s also a common stepping stone toward higher roles in airline and charter operations.
Professional Growth
Teaching forces you to refine your understanding of flying. You’ll become more confident, articulate, and disciplined—not just in your own flying, but in your ability to explain complex concepts to others.
Industry Impact
Instructors are vital to the future of aviation. Your influence will echo through every student you train, every license they earn, and every safe flight they conduct. It’s one of the most rewarding and impactful roles in the industry.
Your Journey Starts with the Right Seat
Becoming a flight instructor isn’t just about logging hours—it’s about making hours matter. Whether you’re looking to level up your career, grow your skills, or give back to the aviation community, the Flight Instructor Rating is your launchpad.
Talk to a trusted training organisation, speak with a current instructor, or book an info session. Because every pilot remembers the instructor who changed their life, and that instructor could be you.
Become an Instructor at Avia—Where Pilots Learn to Lead
Thinking about sharing your love of flying? At Avia, we don’t just train instructors—we shape aviation mentors. Our Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) program is built around real-world application, expert mentorship, and a community of aviators who care about teaching as much as flying.
Whether you’re a commercial pilot looking to build hours or a passionate aviator ready to lead from the right seat, our team is here to guide you. You’ll gain the skills, confidence, and endorsements to instruct safely, effectively, and with purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to complete the Flight Instructor Rating?
Typically, the FIR takes 6 to 10 weeks to complete, depending on your availability and the type of training endorsement you pursue. Avia offers flexible scheduling to suit both full-time and part-time students.
2. What types of endorsements can I add to my rating?
Common endorsements include basic flight training, instrument flying, and night VFR instruction. You can start with one and add more over time, depending on your career goals.
3. Can becoming an instructor help me build hours toward airline applications?
Absolutely. Instructing is one of the most respected and effective ways to build flight hours. It also demonstrates strong communication, decision-making, and leadership skills—traits highly valued by airlines.
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