Obtaining a Flight Instructors Rating

To become a flight instructor with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), you generally need a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), a Class 1 medical certificate, complete specific flight instructor training and pass theoretical and practical tests. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the requirements:

1. Prerequisites:

• Pilot License: Hold a valid CPL or ATPL.

• Medical Certificate: Hold a Class 1 medical certificate.

• Age: Be at least 18 years of age.

• English Language Proficiency: Achieve an English Language Proficiency (ELP) level 4 or higher. 

2. Flight Instructor Training:

• Flight Instructor Patter Training: Complete 20 hours of flight instructor patter training conducted by a Grade I or Grade II Aeroplane Flight Instructor. 

• Dual Flight Instruction: Complete a minimum of 30 hours of dual flight instruction with a Class 1 Flight Instructor. 

• Ground Instruction: Complete a minimum of 25 hours of ground instruction. 

• FSTD Training: Complete 5 hours in an approved Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD). 

• Briefings: Complete 80 hours of one-on-one briefings, with 20 hours billed. 

3. Theoretical Examinations:

Pass two theoretical online examinations. A candidate requiring a Grade III Flight Instructor's Rating shall be required to pass the following subjects at the appropriate level:

• (i) Applied Meteorology and Navigation; and

• (ii) Principles of Flight and Legislation.

4. Practical Flight Test:

• Pass a combined theoretical and practical flight test with a CAA-approved Designated Flight Examiner.