by James Williams, FAA Safety Briefing
When we talk about aviation transition training, we are usually referring to a change in the type of aircraft we are flying. We could be thinking about the change from a single engine to a multi-engine, or maybe the transition from a tricycle gear airplane to a tail-dragger. In other words, we think of transition training in reference to different equipment. But what about training the pilot to operate in a different world?
From Forward Operating Base to Fixed Base Operator
Not all flight instructors are created equal. This is not a comment on the quality of certain instructors, but rather on the different regulatory mechanism used to issue their certificates. Specifically, in 2009, the FAA changed Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61 to allow military instructor pilots or pilot examiners to be issued a flight instructor certificate under section 61.73(g), by presenting documentation of their military instructor or examiner qualifications and passing a Military Competence Instructor (test code MCI) knowledge test to their local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). The military instructor pilot or examiner must also hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating (which can also be obtained via the provisions for current or former U.S. military pilots in section 61.73). Once this process is complete, the military pilot holds a certificate to instruct.
Done, right? Not so fast. If you are a current or former military pilot, are you really ready to teach in the civilian world? The answer might be no. This transition is from one world to another. There are different rules and, in some cases, different procedures. So how do you ensure there are no gaps between your military skills and what you’ll need to succeed in your new civilian role?
Training for the Transition
When it comes to the nuts and bolts, a military instructor is probably pretty close to ready. Flying and teaching skills are most likely top notch, but not all military instructors have experience with civil aviation. Let’s look at some ways you can fill in the gaps.
Most training courses offered for the MCI knowledge test are based on preparing you for the test. That’s good, but if you’ve earned your wings in the military and advanced to the point of being a military instructor or examiner, you can probably handle an FAA knowledge test. The bigger question is how to prepare for the different type of flying you’ll be doing. The FAA website (faa.gov) offers a great deal of helpful information. A good place to start is the Aviation Handbooks and Manuals section (faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation), particularly the Aeronautical Information Manual, Airplane Flying Handbook, Helicopter Flying Handbook, and Aviation Instructor’s Handbook. You don’t necessarily need to read these publications cover to cover, but a scan might help you find sections that will be relevant to instructing in the civilian world.
Next, find an instructor for a “civilian checkout.” A few hours of ground and flight time with an experienced instructor can help you get a better grasp of civilian aviation, as well as help you get acquainted with GA aircraft you may not have had a chance to fly. An experienced instructor can also help you identify areas needing further attention.
To find such an instructor, check out the resources that professional organizations can offer. Both the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) and the Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE) include active and experienced instructors. Both offer mentor and professional development programs that can be very useful. Type clubs and proficiency programs are another resource, and can be particularly helpful if you know you will be teaching in a specific type of airplane.
Also, don’t forget about the requirements of the CFRs. 14 CFR section 61.195, Flight Instructor Limitations and Qualifications, lists requirements that all flight instructors must comply with, no matter how they received their flight instructor certificates. Some of these requirements involve items such as how much instruction they can provide in a single day, requirements for providing instruction in multi-engine airplanes or in a helicopter, along with restrictions of when you can teach someone who is trying to become a flight instructor for the first time. Make a thorough review of the regulations part of your transition training.
With the right amount of preparation, you can greatly improve your chances of a successful transition from a military to a civilian flight instructor. The key ingredient to that transition is ensuring you add a dash of civil experience to your already finely-honed flying skills and well-practiced instructing skills.
Learn More
- FAA Handbooks and Manuals
- FAA Airman Testing
- FAA Airmen Certification
- Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE)
- National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI)
James Williams is FAA Safety Briefing’s associate editor and photo editor. He is also a pilot and ground instructor.
