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