Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Launch your aviation career by becoming a Certified Flight Instructor. Gain teaching experience, build hours, and make an impact—right here at Hawkins.
Flight Instructor Certification
Start Teaching, Start Building Hours
Becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) is one of the most effective ways to gain flight hours while giving back to the aviation community.
At Hawkins, you’ll complete your CFI training using RV-12s and our G3X-equipped fleet. We focus on real-world instruction techniques, lesson planning, and flight proficiency to ensure you're prepared for the checkride and classroom.
- Real-World Teaching Learn how to effectively instruct students using proven methods tailored to modern aircraft.
- Flexible Training Work with examiners and instructors at your pace, with options to accelerate your progress.
- Glass Cockpit Familiarity Stay ahead with experience in G3X avionics and flight data tools to aid your future students.
We help you not only meet FAA standards, but also develop the communication and instructional skills that make great CFIs stand out. Upon certification, you may be eligible to instruct with Hawkins or continue building time toward your airline goals.
Apply Now or Schedule a Discovery Flight
Questions about becoming a flight instructor? Reach out and talk to a member of our team today.
Train Smarter With Hawkins
Advanced Flight Simulators
Our FAA-approved Redbird simulators, developed in partnership with Motlow College, allow you to log up to 2.5 hours toward your Private Pilot License and up to 10 hours toward your Instrument Rating.
Sharpen your skills, reduce training costs, and build confidence in a safe, modern environment, before you ever leave the ground.
Why Fly With Hawkins?
More Than Just a Joyride
At Hawkins Flight Academy, we treat your Discovery Flight as your first real day of flight school. We want you to feel the true responsiveness of a modern aircraft and the satisfaction of commanding it yourself.
- You Take the Controls
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This isn't a sightseeing tour. After a safety briefing, you sit in the pilot's seat and fly the aircraft for 90% of the journey under expert supervision.
- Modern Glass Cockpits
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Don't train on outdated equipment. Experience the situational awareness and safety of our Garmin G3X-equipped fleet from day one.
- Loggable Flight Time
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Every minute you fly counts. Your Discovery Flight is an official lesson that goes directly into your logbook toward your certification.
Experience the Freedom of Flight
The Aviation Lifestyle
The world looks different from 5,000 feet. At Hawkins, we turn that perspective into a career by pairing the thrill of flight with elite instruction. With 7 modern aircraft and a community of over 140 active students, we provide the proven environment you need to go from dreamer to pilot.
- 140+
- Active Students
- 50+
- Graduates in 2025
- 7
- Training Aircraft
- 2
- Locations
Why Choose Us
Join the Hawkins Flight Family
Whether you're chasing a lifelong dream or planning a career in aviation, Hawkins Flight Academy is here to help you get there—with great instructors, modern aircraft, and a friendly, supportive environment.
From your first takeoff to earning your pilot certificate, you’ll be part of a community that believes in personal attention, safety, and helping every student succeed.
Enroll Now
Reach Out to Hawkins
Let's Get You In The Air
All other times by appointment
Certified Flight Instructor FAQs
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You must hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate and pass the FOI and FIA written exams. A valid medical and TSA background check are also required.
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Most students complete the program in 3–6 weeks, depending on prior preparation and schedule availability.
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Yes. We use our BATD simulator to help you prepare for ground instruction and flight maneuvers.
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Yes, successful graduates may be invited to join our instructional team based on availability and performance.
Ready for Takeoff?
Book a Discovery Flight Today
Experience the thrill of flight firsthand with a Discovery Flight at Hawkins Flight Academy. Whether you're considering a career in aviation or just want to see what it’s like to be in the pilot’s seat, this is the perfect first step. You'll fly with a certified instructor and take the controls yourself—no prior experience needed.