At Pelican Flight School, we welcome individuals from various backgrounds who aspire to take to the skies. Located near Miami, we provide an excellent environment for aviation training. While some students start with zero flight hours, others arrive with prior aviation experience at different levels.
For those with existing flight experience, we offer personalized training courses to meet specific certification needs and accelerate progress toward becoming a professional pilot.
If you already have flight experience that can be credited toward your commercial pilot training, we provide an exceptional opportunity to expand your skills. By completing our standardization training, you can advance your aviation career and help train the next generation of pilots as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).
At Pelican Flight School, we recognize that each student brings unique experiences and ambitions. Our CFI training program is structured to accommodate pilots with varying levels of previous experience. If you hold a Private Pilot Certificate, an Instrument Rating, or even a Multi-Engine Rating, we tailor our curriculum to suit your specific needs.
Pilots with substantial prior experience can have their hours credited, enabling them to fast-track their CFI certification. This approach prevents unnecessary repetition, allowing students to save time and resources. Whether you’re transitioning from another flight training program or refining specific aviation skills, our personalized instruction ensures a smooth and efficient path to certification.
By offering individualized training, Pelican Flight School ensures that each student maximizes their potential, preparing them for a rewarding and impactful career in aviation instruction in Miami and beyond.
Achieving a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification is a valuable milestone in a pilot’s career. As a CFI, you not only refine your own aviation expertise but also play a critical role in shaping new pilots. Teaching others enhances your understanding of essential aviation concepts, including safety protocols, aerodynamics, and instrument procedures.
A valid FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate (or ATP) with an Airplane Category (ASEL or AMEL)
A minimum of a Class III medical certificate (Basic Med is acceptable)
Passing scores on the FIA and FOI exams (preferred but not mandatory) or a Ground Instructor certification in lieu of FOI
Becoming a CFI is also a strategic career move, as it allows you to accumulate valuable flight hours while earning an income. Many professional pilot pathways require instructors to demonstrate advanced skills, and obtaining a CFI certification strengthens your qualifications for future airline or commercial roles.
Beyond professional growth, flight instruction is an enriching experience. Guiding students through their training journey, from their first takeoff to passing their checkrides, fosters confidence and a passion for aviation. The leadership and communication skills developed as a CFI are transferable to all areas of the aviation industry, making it a crucial step for any dedicated pilot.
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Many flight instructors will tell you they gained the most knowledge after becoming a CFI. That’s why we emphasize thorough preparation for this role in our Miami-based program.
Depending on your background, the training process includes structured coursework to prepare for two key exams: the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) Exam and the FAA Certified Flight Instructor Knowledge Exam. These cover crucial topics such as effective teaching methods, instructional principles, and advanced aerodynamics.
For those seeking to expand their qualifications, we also offer advanced certifications, including Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) ratings. These additional endorsements equip you with the skills to train students in instrument flight and multi-engine operations, broadening your career opportunities.
The Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) course at Pelican Flight School provides a structured path to certification. The program begins with an in-depth ground school covering instructional techniques, learning psychology, and FAA regulations, ensuring students are prepared for the FOI and CFI Knowledge Exams.
The flight training component focuses on hands-on experience. Students refine their instructional skills while flying advanced aircraft such as the Cessna 152 and Complex SEL. Our state-of-the-art simulators enhance training by simulating real-world flight scenarios, helping students develop instructional proficiency in varied conditions. Training in Miami’s airspace also ensures exposure to real-world air traffic situations, further preparing students for professional aviation careers.
Our program is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to students with different experience levels. Whether you’re beginning your instructor training or building on prior knowledge, our structured curriculum and experienced instructors ensure that you are fully equipped for the FAA checkride and a successful career as a CFI.
Each lesson plan should align with the FAA Practical Test Standards (PTS). We assist students in structuring their lesson plans effectively, ensuring they present key concepts, offer practical insights, and incorporate evaluation techniques.
Once your lesson plans are developed, you will practice instruction by flying with an experienced instructor who will act as your student. This training involves demonstrating flight maneuvers, coaching your "student" through the process, and assessing their performance in real Miami airspace conditions.
Passing the FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) exams and checkride is a major achievement, and Pelican Flight School is dedicated to preparing students for success. Our structured approach includes:
Comprehensive ground school covering instructional methods, aviation principles, and communication strategies
Mock oral exams simulating real testing conditions to help students refine their knowledge
Focused flight training to enhance instructional abilities, ensuring proficiency in all practical test areas
Our training program consistently delivers outstanding results, with over 80% of our students passing their FAA exams and checkrides on their first attempt.
With over 40 years of excellence in aviation education, Pelican Flight School is a trusted name in flight training. Based in South Florida, our school provides ideal flying conditions with 350 days of annual training weather, access to major air traffic hubs, and the opportunity to practice in diverse airspaces, including Miami International Airport’s controlled airspace.
Our comprehensive CFI training program includes a well-maintained fleet, featuring Cessna 152 and Piper 28 Complex aircraft, alongside cutting-edge ALSIM simulators. These resources are carefully selected to help students master advanced flight instruction techniques and prepare for real-world aviation challenges in Miami’s highly active airspace.
Start your journey to becoming a flight instructor with Pelican Flight School—where your passion for flying and teaching takes flight!
Located near the bustling city of Miami, Pelican Flight School offers unparalleled flight training in one of the most dynamic aviation environments in the world. Based at North Perry Airport, just minutes from Miami, our students benefit from ideal weather conditions and access to major airspaces, including Miami International Airport. This proximity gives aspiring pilots hands-on experience in navigating complex flight routes and busy skies, preparing them for real-world challenges. For over 30 years, Pelican Flight School has been recognized for its commitment to safety, excellence, and high standards, providing tailored training programs for both beginners and experienced pilots. Whether you're starting from zero hours or seeking to upgrade your license, our Miami-area flight school ensures you get the expertise, support, and in-depth experience needed to advance your aviation career with confidence and skill.
We will be happy to personally assist you in making decision for your future airline career by providing you with all the information you might need and providing answers to all of your questions. Please complete the form, and we will be in touch with you soon.