Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII)
Add CFII to your instructor certificates and teach instrument students. CFII opens up a larger pool of students and helps you build more hours toward your career goals.
- Teach instrument students
- More students available
- Build hours faster
- Higher earning potential
What Can You Do as a CFII?
Instrument instructor privileges expand your teaching capabilities
Teach Instrument Students
Train pilots for their Instrument Rating. Instrument students represent a significant portion of the student pilot population.
Larger Student Pool
Without CFII, you can only teach Private and Commercial VFR. With CFII, you can teach the full range of single-engine students.
Build Hours Faster
More students means more flight time. CFII instructors typically build hours faster than CFI-only instructors.
Higher Demand
CFII instructors are in high demand. Schools often have more instrument students than instructors to teach them.
Stay IFR Current
Teaching instrument students keeps your own IFR skills sharp. You'll fly approaches and procedures regularly.
Better Career Position
Airlines value the experience of teaching complex IFR procedures. CFII experience stands out on applications.
Requirements & Prerequisites
Adding CFII to your instructor credentials
Existing Certificates
- Hold a CFI certificate
- Hold an Instrument Rating
Flight Experience
- Instrument flight experience as required for CFI
- No additional hour minimums beyond CFI
Knowledge Requirements
- Pass FAA Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) written
- Or pass Instrument Flight Instructor written
Practical Test
- Demonstrate instrument teaching ability
- Demonstrate IFR procedures proficiency
CFII can be added immediately after CFI or later. Many instructors add it within their first few months of instructing.
What's Included in Your Training
Learn to effectively teach instrument flying
Ground School
Teaching instrument concepts
- IFR teaching methodologies
- Common instrument student errors
- Teaching approaches and procedures
- IFR lesson planning
- Risk management in IMC
- Instrument checkride preparation
Flight Training
Instrument instruction techniques
- Teaching basic attitude flying
- Teaching navigation and approaches
- Demonstrating partial panel
- Teaching holds and procedures
- Emergency scenario instruction
- Checkride maneuvers review
Checkride Prep
Prepare for your CFII practical
- Written exam preparation
- Oral exam topics
- Teaching demonstrations
- Mock checkrides
- Final stage check
Key Milestones
Written Exam
Week 1Pass IGI or Instrument CFI written
Teaching Basics
5-10 hoursLearn instrument teaching techniques
Approach Teaching
10-15 hoursMaster teaching all approach types
Checkride
15-20 hoursPass your CFII practical test
Transparent Pricing
A quick add-on that expands your teaching capabilities
Flight Training
$3,825Ground Training
$780Materials & Fees
$1,125CFII training is relatively quick since you already have CFI and Instrument Rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about CFII
How long does it take to add CFII?
Most CFIs add CFII in 2-4 weeks. Since you already have your CFI and Instrument Rating, training focuses on the teaching aspect. The checkride is also shorter than the initial CFI checkride.
Should I get CFII right after CFI?
Many instructors get CFII within their first few months of instructing. Some prefer to gain some teaching experience first, while others add it immediately. Both approaches work; it depends on your situation and goals.
Do I need to take another written test?
Yes, you need to pass either the Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) or the Instrument Flight Instructor written test. Many choose IGI since it's a broader test that also grants ground instructor privileges.
What's the CFII checkride like?
The CFII checkride focuses on your ability to teach instrument flying. You'll demonstrate teaching techniques for various IFR procedures and show that you can effectively train instrument students.
How much more can I earn with CFII?
CFII doesn't usually increase your hourly rate, but it significantly increases your available teaching hours. More students means more paid flight time, which translates to higher annual earnings.
Can I teach instrument students actual IMC?
Yes! With CFII, you can conduct instrument training in actual instrument meteorological conditions. This is valuable experience for both you and your students, and it's more realistic training.
130+ Five-Star Reviews Tell the Story
See Why Pilots Choose Us Over Other Schools
"As parents of a son graduating high-school, we didn't know the first thing about Flight School. We couldn't be happier with our son's experience in the Fast Track Program at US Flight Co. The process was seamless, the instructors were excellent, and he was able to complete his training in a year without sacrificing quality. At 19 years old, he is now a CFII at US Flight Co. A proud moment for our family. Highly recommend!"
"Pursuing a passion for flying is a significant investment of time and money. I did a lot of research before choosing US Flight Co. and I'm really satisfied with my decision. I was pleased to find great facilities, well maintained aircraft, kind and professional staff, and flexible and efficient scheduling. I started with no experience and was able to pass my private pilot check ride with no problem. The instructors are patient and professional and built my knowledge, skills, and confidence in a way that kept it light and fun the whole time."
"After having talked with several different flight schools and also several discovery flights, I chose US Flight Co because they were able to answer my questions and address my concerns with a unique approach rather than cookie cutter answers. They actually listened to me and adapted their training to fit my schedule. Whether you are going all the way to the airlines or just looking into a new hobby, US flight Co and the CFIs are genuinely interested in working with you as an individual."
"I started my aviation journey with US Flight Co last October and have been really pleased with the company as a whole, the administrative team, the instructors (S/O to Josh!!) and the pace of the program. About 8 months in, I'm preparing for my commercial check ride and hope to complete my CFI rating by next month."
"I am currently in the process of obtaining my private pilot's license at US Flight Co, and I couldn't be more impressed. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, making each lesson both informative and enjoyable. The training facilities are top-notch, and the aircraft are well-maintained and modern. I've felt a real sense of progress with every flight, and the team has created a welcoming atmosphere that fosters learning and confidence."
"Us Flight Co is a top flight school in Des Moines. I have been pursuing my private pilots license while finishing my senior year of high school. Because of navigating high school classes I was matched one on one with an instructor. This has been a great match and I appreciate the one on one learning I am receiving. US Flight CO's fleet of aircraft is diverse and expanding. As a student you have plenty of hours for flying and ground instruction. There is also flexibility to work with your school classes or employment hours."
"US Flight Co has been amazing with my aviation journey so far! Started flying at the end of 2024, currently working towards my instrument rating. They have been super flexible and easy to work with, considering I'm in the fast track program with a full time job. Instructors are safe, knowledgeable and fun to fly with. I look forward to continuing my aviation journey with them!"
"I Joined US flight Co about 10 hours into my PPL and have been with them since. My experience has been nothing but positive and they have far exceeded my expectations. They have great Instructors, reliable aircraft, great availability, and most importantly it's all at a very reasonable price. The instructor cadre are very clearly experts in their field and are passionate about ensuring their students are safe pilots and well prepared for their checkride. Aircraft rentals at US flight Co are well priced and well maintained. TLDR: Great people, fantastic instructors all at a reasonable price!"
"I have gone through other schools where I couldn't keep an instructor or the school didn't have their stuff together. US Flight Co has been the complete opposite - professional, organized, and committed to student success."
"Absolutely amazing crew of people. Great instructors who are all willing to help, even if they are not your primary instructor. Very relaxed environment and very personable people to train with. If you are looking for quality instruction look no further."
"Went on a discovery Flight here. Super nice facilities and Jaden my instructor was AMAZING! Would highly recommend. You can tell the instructors care and love their jobs! I wouldn't go anywhere else!"
"Having tried both flight schools based in Des Moines, I can honestly say this is the better of the two"
"I'm working to overcome a fear of flying! Jared has been more than helpful and patient with me. I highly recommend US Flight Co for anyone looking to overcome their fears or learn to fly!"
"I took part in the airline fast track program. It has been an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. I have worked with several CFIs and they are all top notch."
"Flight co has been super flexible with my schedule and has a great team of instructors who are very capable and knowledgeable. I had a great experience obtaining my private pilots license with them!"
Free CFII Planning Session
Tell us your certificates, hours, and goals. An instrument instructor will reach out within one business day to map your fastest path to the CFII add-on.
How We Can Help
- Get your questions answered by a real pilot
- Schedule a tour of our facility at KDSM
- Map out your training timeline and costs
- Talk through financing options
Connect With Admissions
We'll reach out within one business day
Ready to Teach IFR? Add CFII
Schedule training to expand your teaching privileges
Let's get you teaching instrument students. CFII training is efficient and focused. Most instructors complete it in just a few weeks.
- Ground school preparation
- Flight training
- Checkride preparation
- DPE scheduling assistance
Already a CFI here? Current instructors get priority scheduling for CFII add-on training.