Certified Flight Instructor - Practical Test Standards

The certified flight instructor rating is the last check-ride for many flight instructors, examiners, or other licensed flight operators and students. The rating highlights their knowledge and skill levels before they can join an airline. The best way to pass the test is by adequate preparation – that means getting ready for anything since the experiences differ with every instructor or Designated Pilot Examiner. Varying experiences with the CFI tests are available online, but they can be confusing because the instructors get a variety of testing materials that they select at their discretion. This article highlights some helpful tips.

Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) are Essential

The first section of the CFI practical test is the Fundamentals of Instruction, consisting of several sections that could take minutes to hours during the examination. The examiner can use their discretion to select the tasks, meaning they may ask questions in each area. Passing the FOI once is crucial, but it is not a mandatory requirement for those upgrading their ground instructor certificates or current CFIs.

Utilize the FAA Handbooks

The CFI practical test covers a wide range of material that can be overwhelming, but focusing on publications by the FAA can make the preparation easier for you. You can rely on the outlines that the CFI PTS provides to cover some of the areas the examiner might ask about – their Plan of Action depends on the Areas of Operation within the PTS. Other resources can supplement what you learn from the FAA handbooks.

Keep up with FAA’s Modifications

Keeping up with changes in regulations, policies, flying techniques, and general aviation aspects is fundamental for CFIs. The examiner might gauge your understanding and proficiency by asking questions that involve real-life situations to determine your preparedness. Stay updated with the new terms the FAA uses. Using them shows the instructor that you are up-to-date with the modifications.  

Established CFIs or pilots can also take refresher courses to keep up with the changes in the aviation industry to maintain their certificates.

You Can Bring Materials to the Check-Ride

Some materials you can bring to the CFI test such as a filled-out VFR flight plan, lesson plans for the maneuvers the examiner might ask about, a pre-solo written test, and any other material student pilots might use. Being a certified flight instructor involves significant responsibility, including naturing competent pilots. That means the CFI must know what to do in every situation, how to do it, why some procedures are essential, and what to do to mitigate errors that arise from improper implementation of some aviation procedures.

CFI PTS Resources

You can get the ultimate guides to the CFI practical tests with detailed information at Fallon Pilot Shop. Examples include Gleim’s Flight Instructor Flight Maneuvers, FAA’s Commercial Pilot and Flight Instructor, and Flight Instructor Instrument for Airplane & Helicopter. You can also find virtual resources from the platform to ensure you pass the practical test with ease. We know the importance of teaching aviation and how rewarding it is, which is why we have the tools to help you stay updated with the current aviation trends.