The aviation industry in the United States is facing a significant shortage of Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs), threatening the pipeline of new student pilots entering the profession. According to career website Zippia, 50 percent of CFIs have a tenure of under two years, a high turnover rate indicating low appetite for long-term careers in flight instruction.
The CFI shortage is multifaceted, driven by financial issues, industry changes following the COVID-19 pandemic as well as challenges in how the career is perceived. The role a CFI plays in supporting aspiring pilots however is vital, and to overcome the shortage in the US we must improve awareness of flight instruction as a viable, sustainable and rewarding option.
Financial Challenges
The significant pay gap between commercial pilots and CFIs is well reported. While commercial pilots can earn six-figure salaries, CFIs often start with much lower wages, which can understandably be discouraging for those considering flight instruction as a career. The financial burden attached to flight training also skews pilots toward higher-paying roles to compensate for loans they may have taken out.
At Skyborne, we are advocates of reducing the financial barriers to flight training and widening the talent pool for all, regardless of background. However, until fully funded programs and government…
Source www.planeandpilotmag.com
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