Master Instructors LLC, the original Master Instructor program developed by Sandy and JoAnn Hill in 1997, has now found a home at the Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE) after years of partnership.
Originally part of the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI), Master Instructors LLC went independent in 2009, according to officials with SAFE, who note the association has more than 250 Master Instructors and 100 DPEs in its membership.
A new website is at MasterInstructors.org and a new input portal for applications became available March 7.
According to FAA statistics, 2/3 of active CFIs have taught for less than a year, mostly to build hours and move on to professional careers. In the timeline of professional learning, most CFIs are only one calendar year ahead of someone who is beginning, SAFE officials note.
“This is a continuous flow through in brand-new CFIs in our aviation industry,” SAFE officials note. “How does a flight student or pilot seeking improvement determine the ‘masters’ of flight education?”
That’s where the Master Instructor program comes in. The program is a continuing education program that certifies professionals committed to staying in the education field and improving their abilities, SAFE officials explain.
“Think of the CPA designation for accountants or other self-regulated recognition programs that require constant improvement and learning,” they add.
Master Instructors represent less than 1% of instructors, but have been 43% of the National FAA the GA Award winners.
“These CFIs are the best of the best and they prove it every two years,” SAFE officials conclude