Expert: David Bidwell - 9/15/2009

Question
QUESTION: Dear David,

I have been thinking about getting my CFI (Airplane) and would like to know the approximate cost range I can expect. I have VA benefits but haven't always found part 141 to be the best route. I was wondering what you thought would be the best route as far as cost and time? Also do you have any knowledge on the demand for private pilot training now a days? Thank you for taking the time and thought for my question.

ANSWER: Hi Scott,
You have an interesting question. First off, it depends what certificates you already have.  You will need your Private Pilot, Commercial and an instrument rating.  Next, It will depend on your location.  You generally obtain your license much quicker in a warmer climate such as Florida verses where I am from, CT.  The frequency of being able to fly generally cuts down on instruction time which in turn cuts down in cost.  Many of the flight training schools, such as American Flyers, have programs that you can get into with a fixed cost.  Once again, this will depend on what ratings and certificates you now hold.I suggest that you talk to any schools that you might be interested in and discuss your particular situation and what they can do for you.
There is a tremendous range in cost between the facilities.
Dave

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks David. Sorry I should have been clearer with my question about pursuing my CFI. I do have my Commercial Multi-engine, Instrument ratings. I was asking if you thought part 61 or part 141 was more advantages and what the need for private pilot instruction was these days, high or low or about the same. I am in a warm sunny climate, (S.C.) I use to live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with 100 days or less of VFR conditions. Basically one had until June-September for pilot training then that was it for consistent nice weather but nothing was cast in stone. But lovely to fly when nice out. I don't want to spend big bucks for CFI I just want what I need and that's it. So assuming good weather what is the general range cost/time for a CFI? Thank you.

Answer
Hello again,
OK, that's a little clearer. Thanks! In my opinion, at this point in your training you should be seeking the best instructor that you can find. I wouldn't be concerned about part 61 or 141.  If you are going to instruct others, you owe it to them to be the best that you can.  They trust you with their life as well as their pocketbook.  Find an instructor that has a lot of experience. Check on his/her reputation.  Now is not the time to take shortcuts. Keep in mind however that just because a person is a good pilot it does not mean that they can teach.  So much for the lecture.  Let me try to address your questions.

As for the private pilot instruction, I believe that it is way down.  It is following the economy.  Here in the Northeast it is cut about in half from 5 years ago.
Now for cost and time, you can figure a bit more than for your Commercial.  That allows for your education of Fundamentals of Instruction. Some people think of it as getting the Commercial from the right seat. If you are at the top of your game that is.  I have had Commercial rated pilots come to me that I wouldn't pass for a rental check.  Obviously, they took shortcuts in their training.  I assume that you would like a dollar amount.  As I said before and with your experience you understand that it depends where you go.  But, to repeat myself, a good rule of thumb would be a few hundred more than the Commercial.

I hope this does it for you.  Good luck and stay in touch.  I enjoy talking with new CFIs.
Dave