Flight Instructor Practical Test Standards - Airplane (CFI PTS)
The Flight Instructor Practical Test Standards (FAA-S-8081-6D) is the free FAA document defining the standards for the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) practical test for airplane. It outlines the Areas of Operation including fundamentals of instruction, technical subject areas, preflight procedures, and all flight maneuvers the CFI applicant must be able to teach and demonstrate. Download it at no cost from FAA.gov.
Why This Document Matters
The CFI PTS is unique because the CFI checkride is not just about flying—it is about teaching. The DPE evaluates your ability to instruct, not just perform. For each maneuver, you must demonstrate the ability to explain, demonstrate, recognize and correct common errors, and evaluate student performance. The oral portion is extensive, covering fundamentals of instruction, technical subject areas, and your knowledge of the teaching process. The CFI checkride is widely regarded as the most challenging practical test in general aviation.
Chapter-by-Chapter Guide
What each section covers and the key topics to study
1Area I: Fundamentals of Instruction
The learning process, human behavior, effective communication, the teaching process, assessment, and instructor responsibilities.
Area I: Fundamentals of Instruction
The learning process, human behavior, effective communication, the teaching process, assessment, and instructor responsibilities.
Key Topics
2Area II: Technical Subject Areas
Aeromedical factors, visual scanning, runway incursion avoidance, principles of flight, aircraft systems, and regulations.
Area II: Technical Subject Areas
Aeromedical factors, visual scanning, runway incursion avoidance, principles of flight, aircraft systems, and regulations.
Key Topics
3Area III-XII: Flight Maneuvers
All Private and Commercial flight maneuvers, with emphasis on teaching ability.
Area III-XII: Flight Maneuvers
All Private and Commercial flight maneuvers, with emphasis on teaching ability.
Key Topics
Study Tips
- Prepare to teach every maneuver, not just fly it. The DPE will ask you to explain, demonstrate, and analyze each one.
- Create lesson plans for every Area of Operation. The DPE may ask to see your lesson plans during the checkride.
- Practice giving flight briefings aloud. Use the explain-demonstrate-guide-practice model for each maneuver.
- Know all the endorsements a CFI is responsible for (student pilot solo, knowledge test, practical test, flight reviews, etc.) and be able to write them correctly.
- Study spin awareness thoroughly. CFI applicants must demonstrate a thorough understanding of spin aerodynamics and the PARE recovery method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CFI PTS free?
Yes, the Flight Instructor PTS (FAA-S-8081-6D) is a free PDF from FAA.gov.
Why does the CFI still use a PTS instead of an ACS?
As of the current publication, the FAA has not yet converted the Flight Instructor practical test to ACS format. It still uses the Practical Test Standards. The FAA may release a CFI ACS in the future.
How long is the CFI checkride?
The CFI checkride is typically the longest practical test in general aviation. The oral portion alone can last 4-6 hours, and the flight portion adds another 1-2 hours. Total checkride time of 6-8 hours is common.
Do I need to demonstrate spins on the CFI checkride?
The PTS requires CFI applicants to demonstrate instructional knowledge of spin entry, spins, and spin recovery procedures. Whether you actually perform a spin depends on the aircraft and the DPE. You must demonstrate a thorough understanding of spin aerodynamics and the PARE recovery method.
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Flight Instructor Practical Test Standards - Airplane (FAA-S-8081-6D) is an official FAA publication available at FAA.gov
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