A flight instructor and student, both in navy shirts, stand beside a small airplane on an airport tarmac, reviewing information on a tablet as part of professional flight instructor training. A flight bag and other planes are visible with a modern building in the background. - CFI Academy
Professional Flight Instructor Training — Since 1998

Professional Flight Instructor Training — Since 1998

CFI Academy was built around instructor development from day one.
We train professional flight instructors — not pilot throughput.

Two Professional Training Paths. One Standard

For pilots ready to teach professionally

CFI, CFII, and MEI training built around instructor development, standardization, and professional accountability. Our programs are selective by design and structured to develop instructors who can teach consistently and responsibly.

Apply for Instructor Training

Want the full overview first? View our flight instructor training programs.

For pilots preparing for advanced training

Structured preparation for pilots planning their next professional step. This path is designed for long-term outcomes, not shortcuts, and helps pilots arrive ready for advanced training when the time is right.

Explore Professional Pilot Path
A group of people sit around a table in a classroom studying aviation materials as part of professional flight instructor training. The walls display aircraft photos, maps, and aviation posters. The room appears focused and collaborative. - CFI Academy

Why CFI Academy Exists

Most flight schools are built around pilot training volume.
CFI Academy was built around instructor development — and has remained focused on that mission for more than two decades.

  • Instructor development is our core business

  • Training is structured, standardized, and selective

  • Replacement instructors are trained to the same standard

Instructor Training as a Professional Track

Instructor certification is not a collection of add-ons. At CFI Academy, CFI, CFII, and MEI form a single professional progression with increasing responsibility.

Learn how CFI, CFII, and MEI fit together

A group of people stand in a circle next to a small white and blue airplane on an airport tarmac, with hangars and trees in the background. The CFI Academy logo signals professional flight instructor training in the lower right corner. - CFI Academy

Not Every Pilot Is a Good Fit — and That’s Intentional

Professional instructor training requires preparation, discipline, and accountability. Applicants are evaluated for readiness before acceptance to ensure the right fit for both the candidate and the program.

Ready to Pursue Professional Instructor Training?

Apply for Instructor Training

Exploring training options first?

View Professional Pilot Preparation