Recognizing When It's Time to Switch Flight Instructors

Are you questioning your current flight instructor? While it might seem daunting, recognizing the right time to switch instructors is crucial for both your and your instructor. After all, an instructor who isn’t a good fit for you can hinder your learning process, leading to frustration and even safety concerns. This article explores the clear signs indicating it might be time to find a new flight instructor.

Safety and Trust

Safety is Non-Negotiable: Safety should always be your top priority in flight training. If your instructor takes actions that you deem unsafe, it's a red flag that you should find a different instructor. This could include questionable maneuvers or decisions that leave you questioning their judgment. Your well-being is at stake, and you have the right to feel safe and secure during your training.

Respect and Professionalism

Positive Interactions Matter: Your instructor should treat you with respect and professionalism. Yelling or belittling you for mistakes can be damaging and demotivating. You are paying for a service to learn and grow as a pilot, so every moment in the cockpit should be focused on your education, not conflict or humiliation. If your instructor is not conducting themselves in a manner that supports your learning, it’s time to consider a change.

Temperament and Fit

It's About the Fit: Ultimately, you and your instructor should get along. This might sound simple, but it can have a massive impact on your progress. Enjoyment is key in flight training. Over four decades of teaching, I've found that students who are having fun absorb more information and enjoy the learning process more. If you and your instructor are not compatible, your time together may feel like a waste of your valuable resources and opportunities.

Addressing Issues Proactively

Communication with the School: If you are experiencing issues with your current instructor, it’s important to communicate proactively with the school’s chief instructor or owner. They can mediate any conflicts and help you find a solution. Many flight schools don't allow transferring to another instructor within the same school, which means you might need to relocate to another airport or another school. However, bringing up concerns with the school can help ensure a smoother transition.

A Scenario for Reflection

Classic Misunderstandings: Have you ever found yourself flying with an instructor and suddenly realized they didn't hear a call out you made? A comically simple yet common scenario could be when you say, "Are you ok?" and they respond with, "Zzz zzz!" This moment of disconnect might signify a bigger problem with communication or understanding. In such cases, it’s worth evaluating whether this gap could become more significant during crucial moments of flight training.

In conclusion, recognizing the signs that it might be time to switch flight instructors is about prioritizing your safety, ensuring you receive the respect you deserve, and finding an instructor who truly supports your growth and enjoyment of the sport. By addressing any issues proactively, you can ensure you achieve the best possible results in your flight training journey.