Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
Expand teaching capabilities. Master advanced IFR procedures and weather navigation as a highly employable CFII.
Program Overview
Adding an Instrument rating to your Flight Instructor certificate (CFII) allows you to teach students how to fly in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC). This add-on makes you significantly more valuable to flight schools, allows you to log dual-given instrument time, and sharpens your own IFR proficiency to an 'Above-the-Standard' level.
ENROLL NOW!
Your Step-by-Step Path to Becoming a Licensed Pilot





Advanced IFR Ground Instruction
Learn how to clearly explain complex topics like holding patterns, approach plates, and weather systems.
Simulator Teach-Backs
Master the use of our Gleim BATD simulator as a teaching tool, pausing and resetting scenarios for your students.
Right-Seat Instrument Flying
Practice flying precision and non-precision approaches under the hood from the instructor's (right) seat.
Lesson Plan Refinement
Develop a structured binder of instrument lesson plans tailored to the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS).
FAA CFII Checkride
Demonstrate your instructional mastery during an oral presentation and an instrument flight test.
Check What Is Included
Have Questions?
Every pilot's journey is unique. If you need more clarity on our programs or want to discuss your path to the cockpit, our team is ready to help.
Teach Instrument Students
Never run out of students to teach. CFIIs are always in high demand.
Log IFR Time
Legally log highly coveted instrument flight time while your student is flying in actual IMC.
Master Avionics
Become an absolute expert on modern GPS and glass-cockpit systems by teaching them daily.
What can you do with your license?
Transform your passion into a profession. Our advanced programs prepare you for the most sought-after roles in the aviation industry.
Advanced Flight Instructor (CFII)
Expand your student base by teaching Instrument Rating candidates. Build valuable dual-given IFR hours for your logbook.
Corporate & Charter Pilot
Corporate flight departments actively seek pilots with deep, recent instrument experience and instructional backgrounds.
Regional Airline First Officer
Transition smoothly into Part 121 airline operations where flying on instruments is an everyday, mandatory requirement.
Chief Flight Instructor
Lead other instructors, manage flight school safety standards, and conduct stage checks for instrument students.
Why Smart Pilots Choose Bird Dog Flight Services
We bridge the gap between rigid flight factories and personalized, Above-the-Standard mentorship. Your training, your goals.
High Pass Rates
Our students consistently beat the national average for passing their flight tests on the first try.
Always Ready to Fly
We take excellent care of our planes so they are ready whenever you schedule a lesson, no unnecessary delays.
One-on-One Coaching
Our instructors aren't just teachers; they are mentors who adapt every lesson to fit your exact goals and learning style.
Clear Training Plans
Whether you want to fly for fun on the weekends or become a professional airline pilot, we give you a straightforward roadmap to get there.
Investment & Training Hours
Transparent breakdown of FAA minimums versus realistic averages to help you plan your aviation journey.
Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
Hours Breakdown
Estimated Timeline
2 to 4 Weeks (Accelerated/Full-Time Add-on)
1 to 2 Months (Part-Time/Weekends)
* Using our Gleim BATD simulator to practice teaching approaches drastically reduces the cost of the CFII add-on.
$40,000
Compared to traditional university flight programs.
Our focused approach cuts out the bloated tuition and scheduling delays, getting you to the airlines faster and with less debt.
What Our Students Say
I got my PPL at bird dog and I have nothing but good things to say about my experience there. Every CFI is very knowledgeable about the curriculum and provided a great experience. The aircraft are very well maintained and the facilities are excellent. Overall Bird dog is a great place to study aviation.
"Started my instrument training here in Jan of 2024 and was able to get my instrument, commercial and CFI done by October. Instructors really care about safety and the planes..."
"I've been flying with Bird Dog for some months now and I have nothing but positive things to say. Everything from logging hours to aircraft maintenance to actually learning..."
"I got my PPL here at Bird Dog, I started in the beginning of my senior year in high school and finished right after graduation..."
"One stop shop for excellent flight training. Knowledgeable instructors, great availability, and training centered on your success. I'd look no further than Bird Dog for your flight training!..."
Prerequisites
Because you likely already hold your initial CFI, this course is typically a fast-paced add-on. Expect a heavy focus on simulator teaching techniques and flying perfect approaches from the right seat.

Flexible Financing Built for Your Needs
We partner with Stratus Financial to offer competitive, flexible loan terms that cover individual ratings or our entire professional pilot track.
Typical Repayment Terms
Choose a payment structure that fits your training timeline and budget.
Covered Flight Programs
Estimated training times based on your program goals.
- LOFT Career Pilot Program 6-9 Months
- Private Pilot License (PPL) 2-4 Months
- Instrument Rating 2-3 Months
- Commercial Pilot License 4-6 Months
- CFI / CFII Certifications 1-2 Months
Are You Ready to Take Off?
Stop dreaming. Start flying.
Join a community of pilots who value efficiency, safety, and personalized mentorship.
Frequently Asked Questions About CFII Training
How long does it take to get a CFII rating?
Do I need my CFI before getting my CFII?
Can I teach using the simulator?
How much does the CFII add-on cost?
Will having a CFII help me get hired by an airline faster?
Still have questions?
If you have any other questions, please get in contact!