Aeronautical knowledge

Before you can apply for a flight instructor certificate, you must receive and log ground training covering three main areas:

Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI): This covers teaching basics like how students learn, effective teaching methods, evaluation techniques, course and lesson planning, and classroom instruction. However, you can skip this requirement if you already hold any flight or ground instructor certificate, have a state teaching certificate for 7th grade or higher, or work as a teacher at an accredited college or university.

Aeronautical Knowledge: You need ground training in the knowledge areas for recreational, private, and commercial pilot certificates in your aircraft category (airplane, helicopter, etc.).

Instrument Knowledge (if applicable): If you're seeking instrument instructor privileges, you must also cover the aeronautical knowledge areas for instrument ratings in that category.

This training ensures you understand both what to teach and how to teach it effectively before instructing students.

*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.*