FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Capt. Dimitrios Sipsas, as an EASA Examiner (T.R.E), wrote an article concerning “Flight Instructor Responsibilities” on “Aviation Week & Space Technology” Magazine on April 2018.

The Flight Instructor is the central figure in pilot training and is responsible for all required training.The instructor must be fully qualified as an aviation professional, however, the instructor’s ability must go far beyond this if the requirements of professionalism are to be met.

Although the word” professionalism” is widely used, it is rarely defined. Though not all inclusive, the following list gives some major considerations and qualifications that should be included in the definition of professionalism.

• Professionalism exists only when a service is performed for someone, or for the common good.
• Professionalism is achieved only after extended training and preparation.
• True performance as a professional is based on study and research.
• Professionals must be able to reason logically and accurately
• Professionalism requires the ability to make good judgmental decisions
• Professionals must be true to themselves and to those they serve.

All Instructors should carefully consider this list. Failing to meet these qualities may result in poor performance by the instructor and the trainees.

Preparation and performance as an instructor with these qualities constantly in mind will command recognition as a professional in aviation instruction.

All instructors must insure their trainees safety as well as the safety of the general public. Flight Safety and Accident Prevention is the Most Important in Aviation.