Q. I just got my CFI and at age 54 I’m not planning to work for the airlines, but $10 to $12 an hour for such a demanding job as a flight instructor is really sad. When will salaries get better?—Scott
A. There are many factors that have put flight instructors at the bottom of the pay scale, and it’s been like that since the Wright brothers. We are our own worst enemy. We sell ourselves cheap to flight schools and students, and it’s our own fault. Why? Two reasons, I believe. First, there is a fear that if we make a flight hour too expensive, we won’t get students. Second, there is always another CFI nearby who will take $10 per hour, and every FBO or flight school operator knows that. Basically, the salary bar is set really low simply because most CFIs are desperate to build flight time and will accept peanuts for pay to do it.
What industry on the planet views a career as a teacher, instructor, educator, or faculty member as an “entry-level position”? Instructors in medicine, law, and even on ski slopes are seasoned professionals who are highly valued and respected because of their education and experience—and they are compensated well because of it. In the aviation world, we anoint a relatively low-time pilot with a mere 250 hours as a flying “professional” well-suited to train future pilots. The fact that many of these freshly minted instructors are youngsters in their 20s further fosters the image that CFIs are merely interns learning the flying trade and, just like hospital interns and law clerks, they are worthy of only a pittance.
The most successful CFIs, who are getting $75 per hour—and they are out there—have acquired beaucoup time and a high level of maturity. Further, they have stayed clear of flight schools and oppressive salaries. They work independently and find a niche. The successful CFI making bigger bucks is most likely in his 40s or older and has become expert in something, whether it’s Garmin G1000 equipment, technically advanced aircraft (TAA), mountain flying, instrument flight, or some other specialization. But it takes time to develop clientele that respects these attributes and is willing to pay. The best marketing strategy for these pros is word of mouth.
The basic laws of economics will, I believe, change the dynamics. There is deep concern about the future of aviation that is shared at AOPA and among manufacturers. The pilot population is declining along with student completions. Eventually, the laws of supply and demand will make an impact on all levels of the industry. When the industry wakes up and makes aviation a pursuit worthwhile, more talent will be attracted.
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