Instructor Training Decisions
MEI vs CFII: Which Instructor Rating Should You Do First?
After earning your CFI, the next question most pilots face is:
👉 Should you pursue CFII or MEI next?
Both ratings are valuable. Both are part of a broader pathway within flight instructor training programs.
But the right choice depends on timing, experience, and long-term goals.
CFII vs MEI: What’s the Difference?
CFII
CFII (Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument) allows you to:
- CFII (Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument) allows you to teach instrument students through a structured CFII training program.
- Conduct IFR training
- Build structured, consistent dual instruction time
MEI
MEI (Multi Engine Instructor) allows you to:
- MEI (Multi Engine Instructor) allows you to teach advanced training through a MEI training program.
- Conduct advanced training
- Work with complex aircraft and systems
👉 Both expand your instructional capability—but in different ways.
Which One Should You Do First?
Most pilots are told:
- “Do CFII first-it’s easier to build time”
OR - “Do MEI-it’s more advanced”
Neither answer is complete.
👉 The real answer depends on how your training is structured.
Why CFII Is Usually Done First
CFII is often the next step after CFI because:
- It builds on existing knowledge
- It provides consistent instruction opportunities
- It is easier to schedule and complete
👉 Instrument students generate steady dual instruction-making CFII one of the most efficient ways to build time.
Why MEI Is Often Done Later
MEI training is frequently delayed because:
- It requires multi-engine PIC time
- It is perceived as more complex
- Access to aircraft may be limited
👉 As a result, many pilots postpone it-sometimes longer than necessary.
A better understanding of how long it takes to get your MEI can help clarify why many pilots delay this step.
A Smarter Approach: CFII and MEI Together
Instead of choosing one over the other, many pilots benefit from combining both.
A structured CFII and MEI combined training approach integrates both skill sets efficiently.
This approach allows:
- Instrument and multi-engine concepts to reinforce each other
- Required multi-engine PIC time to be built within training
- A more complete understanding of advanced flight operations
A structured CFII and MEI combined training approach integrates both skill sets efficiently.
👉 This is often the most efficient and effective path forward.
When Should You Choose CFII, MEI, or Both?
Plannig ahead is the key. Once you have researched on how to become a flight instructor, plan the next stage carefully. Invest in your future, carefully.
CFII First (Best if):
- You need consistent time-building
- You are early in instructing
- You want structured progression
MEI First (Less common, but possible):
- You already have strong multi-engine experience
- You have access to aircraft
- You are targeting specific roles
Combined CFII + MEI (Best overall):
- You want efficiency
- You want deeper understanding
- You want to maximize training value
👉 This aligns with a structured airline pilot training path
How This Decision Affects Your Career
Choosing the right path impacts:
- How quickly you build time
- What type of experience you gain
- How valuable you are to flight schools
Many pilots also evaluate whether getting an MEI is worth it before deciding when to pursue it.
👉 Instructors (CFI) with CFII + MEI are significantly more flexible and employable.
Choose the Right Path for Your Training
CFII and MEI are not competing options-they are complementary.
The key is choosing the right sequence or combination based on your goals.
