Chief instructor responsibilities

The chief instructor at a Part 141 pilot school has four main responsibilities:

First, they must certify student records, graduation certificates, test reports, and course completion recommendations—though they can delegate this to assistant chief instructors or recommending instructors.

Second, they must ensure every instructor passes an initial proficiency check before teaching, then recurrent checks every 12 calendar months. This applies to flight instructors, ground instructors, and commercial pilots with lighter-than-air ratings.

Third, they must ensure students complete all required stage checks and end-of-course tests according to the approved training course.

Fourth, they must maintain training techniques, procedures, and standards that meet FAA approval.

The chief instructor (or assistant chief) must be available—either at the school or remotely by phone, radio, or electronic means—whenever training is conducted. They may delegate stage checks, end-of-course tests, and instructor proficiency checks to assistant chief instructors or check instructors.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*