What does an aviation instructor do?

An aviation Instructor shall have the capability to develop/ build the student’s competence up to the expected level by theoretically and practically to perform his/ her role expected by the management. Instructor shall always get his knowledge updated with the subject matter.

Basic role and responsibilities of a Aviation instructor is mentoring to the enthusiasts to achieve the competency and also keep other motivating to adapt the professional knowledge and contribute to the progress of aviation business

An aviation instructor typically teaches aspiring pilots or aviation professionals various aspects of flying, including theory, practical skills, safety procedures, regulations, and navigation techniques. They may work for flight schools, colleges, or aviation academies, conducting classroom lectures, simulator training, and in-flight instruction to help students acquire the knowledge and skills needed to become competent pilots. They also assess student progress, provide feedback, and prepare them for pilot certification exams.

The role of an aviation instructor extends beyond flying. The industry has evolved to encompass Safety Management Systems, Human Factors, Ground Handling, Dangerous Goods, and Aviation Security. Regardless of the subject matter, instructors are responsible for maintaining their own capabilities for effective instruction. This aspect requires close monitoring, yet it often receives insufficient attention.

Aviation instructors need a deep understanding of aeronautical concepts, strong communication skills, and patience. Essential qualifications include a commercial pilot license, certified flight instructor rating, and relevant academic degrees. Proficiency in aviation regulations, navigation systems, and instructional techniques is crucial. Technical expertise in aircraft systems and simulations is beneficial. Additionally, instructors should possess adaptability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to create a positive learning environment for diverse students. Ongoing professional development and a commitment to safety are key attributes for successful aviation instruction.

I read once, "knowledge without experience is philosophy, and experience without knowledge is ignorance". Gaining the skill to balance theoretical knowledge with practical experience in aviation is crucial It ensures that people are not only knowledgeable about the principles, but are also proficient in handling real-life conditions. This balance makes them more competent and confident, reducing the risk of errors. It also aligns training with the specific needs of an airline or aviation company, enhancing efficiency and safety. Essentially, mastering this skill is key to developing well-rounded individuals who can contribute effectively to the aviation industry's overall success.

Ideally, the potential Instructor has to be ‘taught how to teach’, a vital component in the armory of any successful teacher. You may possess the best knowledge and experience, but if you do not know how to impart this properly, it’s of no value !

It takes a high degree of skills and knowledge to become an effective instructor. However, the mistake often made by individuals and organisations alike, is that possessing these skills and knowledge is insufficient criteria to becoming an effective, let alone good, instructor. Not everyone is suited to it, but those that are, tend to be those with personality types that thrive off helping students that struggle, having empathy with the challenges that they will inevitably face to a degree, and gain a huge personal satisfaction and pride in helping them overcome these challenges and reaching the highest standards. Brooker Aviation Ltd will select and identify those on the basis of this for their advanced instructor accreditation scheme.

An aviation instructor's main role is to impart knowledge and skills to their students, using a variety of methods and materials. Depending on their specialty, they may teach theoretical subjects, such as aerodynamics, meteorology, navigation, or regulations, or practical skills, such as flying maneuvers, cockpit procedures, or emergency situations. They may also prepare lesson plans, conduct assessments, provide feedback, and maintain records of their students' progress and performance. Additionally, they may have to supervise and coordinate with other instructors, staff, and equipment providers.

An aviation instructor typically teaches aspiring pilots how to fly aircraft safely and proficiently. They conduct ground instruction on topics like aerodynamics, aircraft systems, navigation, weather, regulations, and flight planning. In addition, they provide hands-on flight training, demonstrating techniques and procedures, and overseeing student practice flights until they are competent to fly solo and eventually obtain their pilot's license.

Aviation instruction presents challenges such as adapting to diverse learning styles, addressing varying skill levels, and staying current with evolving technology. Weather disruptions and regulatory changes add complexity. However, the rewards include shaping future pilots, witnessing skill development, and contributing to aviation safety. Personal satisfaction arises from students' successful flights. Building a supportive community within the aviation industry, continuous professional growth and the joy of seeing students achieve their goals make the challenges worthwhile for dedicated aviation instructors.

Handles operations on the ground with all responsibilities and customer support and care giving right instructions to the staff on each boarding gates

Aviation instructors often progress to advanced roles, such as chief flight instructor or director of training, overseeing educational programs. Some transition to airline or corporate piloting. Opportunities exist in simulator instruction, curriculum development, or becoming examiners for regulatory bodies. Educational roles in aviation management or safety are options. Advanced certifications, like seaplane or instrument instructor ratings, expand opportunities. Additionally, contributing to industry publications or pursuing advanced degrees can lead to roles in research or academia. The diverse career paths showcase the versatility within the aviation instruction field.

From my perspective, in addition to a set of skills that brings together knowledge and skills, I believe that acting as a lifelong learner in order to remain up to date with new technologies and regulations, manage challenges and above all facilitate learning centered on participants and their performance, ensuring progress of learning. For this reason, I strongly believe that knowledge about adult learning and teaching-learning processes is just as important as technical skills.

As I always mentioned, that whosoever is leading the designated roles are to be trained and keep updating himself with all guidelines and with new collective knowledges. Intrusctions of an Instructor are only for there designated departments, as in Aviation Industry each departments plays different roles and handled by the experts accordingly. In pertaining to the basic needs in salary structures are to be maintained with great & attractive payments. Depends how the employers value their champs.

An aviation instructor should learn and use Aristotle's three rhetorical appeals:Ethos,Pathos,and Logos to effectively connect with trainees and facilitate their learning. Ethos focuses on establishing the instructor's credibility,expertise, and experience in the aviation field, building trust and respect. Pathos aims to evoke emotions and create a personal connection with trainees, fostering engagement to learn. Logos employs logical reasoning, evidence, and clear communication to present information, ensuring trainees understand the subject matter. By employing these appeals, aviation instructors create a conducive learning environment, effectively communicate concepts, and inspire trainees to excel in their aviation knowledge and skills.

Always consider that being a subject matter expert doesn’t mean you will automatically become a good Instructor ,in training delivery a lot of skills come into play like emotional intelligence ,patience and a great ability to listen and consider contributions of your trainees . Also the ability to accommodate trainees from different backgrounds is key , in aviation training there is a great portion of adult learning and adult learning demands a different approach as you are training people who are already professionals most of them ,your training method must be inclusive and leverage on the experience of your trainees .