Certified Flight Instructor
Ground Instruction
• Rate: $65/hour
• Estimated Time: 25–30 hours
• Total: $1,625–$1,950
CFI ground covers advanced fundamentals of instruction, lesson plan development, endorsements, regulations, and in-depth checkride preparation—especially the notoriously challenging oral exam.
Flight Training in a Cessna 152
• Aircraft Rate: $135/hour (wet)
• Instructor Rate: $65/hour
• Estimated Flight Time: 10–15 hours (focus is on right-seat proficiency and maneuvers)
• Aircraft Cost: $1,350–$2,025
• Instructor Cost: $650–$975
• Combined Total (152): $2,000–$3,000
Most of the training is focused on refining your teaching ability and flying from the right seat.
Flight Training in a Cessna 172
• Aircraft Rate: $170/hour (wet)
• Instructor Rate: $65/hour
• Estimated Flight Time: 10–15 hours
• Aircraft Cost: $1,700–$2,550
• Instructor Cost: $650–$975
• Combined Total (172): $2,350–$3,525
Training in the 172 is ideal if that’s the aircraft you’ll instruct in or if you’re seeking more comfort during prep and checkride.
Additional Expenses (Estimates):
• Written Exams (FOI + FIA): $175 each = $350
• Checkride Examiner Fee (DPE): $1,250
• Materials (lesson plans, books, endorsements): $200–$300
Estimated Total Cost:
• Training in a 152: $4,550
• Training in a 172: $5,900