Re: Look For The Gray Hair

Eh...I'm not sure I can agree with you on this. When it comes to instruction, hours don't mean anything! Hours don't dictate how well someone can effectively teach. Sure, they may have seen more in those "4 logbooks" -- but does that mean they can adequately convey the information in a method that is conducive to teaching? No way! I'm a young CFI (started instructing when I was 22). I have a 100% success rate with my students that I have sent for check rides (private through commercial students (ASEL & AMEL). Not to toot my own horn but I must be doing something right. I have had students transfer to me from older instructors and some have mentioned to me it was such a relief to fly with me. They enjoy the enthusiasm and availability that a younger CFI has provided them. An older instructor is going to be more rigid in their ways because they are so used to their way that works. While a younger student is going to better adapt to a new student because they themselves are still learning and therefore are willing to try new methods and techniques with a student to make things work for the student. You mention they may be difficult to get along with. This is probably the worst thing ever. For many new students flying is a somewhat nerve racking experience. Sitting next to someone that you don't get along with for 40+ hours in the claustrophobic environment of a 172 is NOT going to be conducive. Also, with the advent of the new glass cockpits you will see the younger students (for the most part) having a better grasp of the new technology -- considering the fact that they grew up using computers. Finally, a younger instructor doesn't feel the need to hammer in the methods of flying 40 years ago. Things change, wouldn't you want the instructor that has learned in a fresh new environment with the newest technology?

Gear.Down    Apr 03, 2009 17:23:56