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3 Answers

Initial CFI training

Asked by: 6091 views FAA Regulations, Flight Instructor

I am a SE and ME commercial pilot.  I want to go for CFI now.  I was told by my CFI that I have to do all of my training in a complex airplane.  Can I not just do it in a 172?

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3 Answers



  1. Kent Shook on Nov 19, 2010

    As of right now, a complex airplane is required for the takeoff and landing maneuvers.

    From Page 10 of the CFI PTS for Airplane, under “Aircraft and Equipment Required for the Practical Test”:

    A complex airplane must be furnished for the performance of takeoff and landing maneuvers, and appropriate emergency procedures.

    So, you can either do the entire ride in a complex airplane, or bring TWO airplanes and use the complex one for the takeoffs, landings, and emergency procedures while using a non-complex one for everything else.

    The FAA has been talking about changing the rules for both commercial pilots and flight instructors to not require a complex airplane, but the rule change has not yet gone through.

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  2. Wesley Beard on Nov 20, 2010

    Another other option is to get your MEI first and then you can use the C-172 for the single engine CFI add-on.

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  3. Matthew Waugh on Dec 02, 2010

    Your CFI is either lieing to you or confused about the regulations. In either case they wouldn’t seem to be an appropriate resource for your training – find another one.
    If you want to be a CFI you’re going to have to understand the regulations, if only to pass your checkride. You’re also going to have create lesson plans – no better time to start than now. YOU figure out what you need to pass your CFI checkride and YOU lay that out in writing. Then sit down with a CFI who isn’t trying to build complex time and agree on the plan – and then execute it.

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