Flight Instructor Rating

The Flight Instructor Rating is an endorsement to a Commercial Pilot License, and is regarded as one of Transport Canada's strongest endorsements. It implies a level of confidence and trust which is not apparent in other rating or licenses. For the person who holds it, it means a duty and responsibility which goes beyond the privileges of the license, and that the graduate of the Flight Instructor Course is well qualified to help others earn the various permits, licenses, and ratings.

In addition to holding a Commercial Pilot License, the candidate for the Instructor Rating must complete a 25 hour ground school which will include:

• Application of the principle of learning;
• Techniques of instruction;
• Preparation and use of lesson plans;
• Procedures for planning and presenting preparatory ground instruction, pre-flight briefings, in-flight instruction, and post-flight debriefings;
• Theory of flight; Aircraft flight manuals and operating limits;
• Presentation of pilot decision-making concepts; and
• Use of Transport Canada Instructor Guide, Training manual, and other publications.

The flying portion of the course consists of 30 hours dual instruction on presentation of the exercises set out in the Flight Instructor Guide, including a minimum of 5 hours teaching instrument flying skills.

To complete the course, the candidate will pass a written examination and flight test. The study and reference guide issued by Transport Canada will assist in the process of the exam and the flight test standards guide will assist in a successful flight test.