Certificated Flight Instructor

From Pilots Almanac

In the United States, a Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI) is either a commercial pilot or ATP who has received additional training and has been authorized by the FAA to endorse pilot log books and give training. A CFI must also have an instrument rating, however he may not give instrument training if that training is applied directly toward instrument rating requirements unless he has added "Instruments" to his instructor certificate.

A flight instructor certificate expires after two years, thus, it must be reissued. Flight instructors may qualify to have their certificates reissued by endorsing at least five students for practical tests within the two year period, while 80% of those endorsed pass on their initial attempt. Flight instructors may also attend a Flight Instructor Refresher Clinic (FIRC). A third option for renewal is to gain or renew a Master CFI rating from the National Association of Flight Instructors.

The CFI initial Practical Test is widely considered to be the most difficult practical test given by the FAA. It has a high first-time failure rate.

Abbreviations

CFI - Certificated Flight Instructor

CFII - Certificated Flight Instructor/Instruments

MEI - Multiengine Instructor