Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Become an aviation leader. Build hours, share your passion, and master the right seat with CFI training.
Program Overview
Earning your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate is the most effective way to build the flight hours required for an airline career while getting paid to fly. You will transition from flying the aircraft to teaching others how to fly, mastering aviation concepts to an 'Above-the-Standard' level.
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Your Step-by-Step Path to Becoming a Licensed Pilot
Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)
Master the psychology of learning, effective teaching methods, and professional communication skills.
Lesson Plan Development
Create your own comprehensive lesson plans for ground sessions and flight maneuvers.
Right-Seat Transition
Learn to safely fly the aircraft from the instructor's (right) seat while simultaneously talking through the maneuvers.
Teach-Back Sessions
Practice teaching ground and flight lessons to our senior instructors to refine your delivery and catch blind spots.
FAA CFI Checkride
Pass the rigorous oral exam and practical flight test to become a fully certified aviation educator.
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.
Get Paid to Fly
Earn a salary while building your logbook towards the 1,500 hours required for the airlines.
Master Your Craft
Nothing solidifies your aviation knowledge more deeply than having to teach it to someone else.
Career Networking
Instructing at a respected school like Bird Dog connects you instantly with the local DFW aviation community.
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.
Flight Instructor
Get paid to teach new students, build your logbook rapidly towards 1,500 hours, and master your piloting skills through teaching.
Regional Airline Pilot
Transition to the airlines as a First Officer once you hit your ATP minimums. Fly regional jets and build multi-crew experience.
Corporate & Charter Pilot
Fly privately owned aircraft or charter flights for businesses and VIPs, offering a dynamic schedule and high-end equipment.
Cargo & Freight Pilot
Fly overnight freight operations. This is a common and highly respected way to build multi-engine and night flying experience.
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.
Hours Breakdown
Estimated Timeline
4 to 8 Weeks (Accelerated/Full-Time)
2 to 4 Months (Part-Time/Weekends)
* Logging up to 10 hours in our Gleim BATD simulator can significantly reduce costs while improving learning outcomes.
$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
Expect an intensive focus on ground knowledge and presentation skills. You are already a commercial pilot; this course focuses entirely on teaching you how to be an elite educator.
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 Flight Instructor Training
How long does CFI training take?
Do I have to build my own lesson plans?
Does Bird Dog Flight Services hire its own graduates?
Can I get my CFII (Instrument Instructor) rating here too?
How much does the CFI rating cost?
Still have questions?
If you have any other questions, please get in contact!