The Assistant Chief Flight Instructor (ACFI) assists the Chief Flight Instructor in carrying out the management, supervision, and standardization of flight training conducted under 14 CFR Part 141, in accordance with the responsibilities assigned to chief instructors and assistant chief instructors under 14 CFR §§ 141.35 and 141.36.
This position supports the day-to-day oversight of flight training, instructor training and supervision, instructional standardization, and regulatory compliance for FAA-approved training courses. The ACFI serves as a qualified and authorized instructional leader who may act on behalf of the Chief Flight Instructor as delegated, ensuring the continuous, safe, and effective conduct of training operations within a collegiate aviation environment.
In alignment with 14 CFR §§ 141.35 and 141.36, the Assistant Chief Flight Instructor shall:
Instructional Oversight & Supervision
- Assist the Chief Flight Instructor in supervising all flight instructors and ensuring training is conducted in accordance with FAA-approved Training Course Outlines (TCOs).
- Exercise delegated authority to oversee flight and ground training operations when the Chief Flight Instructor is unavailable.
- Ensure instructors are properly qualified, current, and authorized for the training they conduct.
- Provide direct leadership, mentoring, and professional guidance to flight instructors.
Standardization & Training Quality
- Assist in maintaining standardization of instructional methods, procedures, and evaluation practices across all courses.
- Conduct or assist with stage checks, end-of-course tests, and instructor standardization activities, as authorized.
- Monitor instructional quality and ensure adherence to approved syllabi, lesson plans, and grading standards.
Regulatory Compliance & FAA Coordination
- Support compliance with Part 141 certificate requirements, FAA approvals, and limitations.
- Assist in preparation for FAA inspections, surveillance, audits, and certification activities.
- Ensure training records, instructor records, and student records are accurate, complete, and maintained in accordance with FAA and institutional requirements.
- Assist with corrective actions and continuous improvement following FAA findings or internal reviews.
Safety & Risk Management
- Promote and support the program’s Safety Management System (SMS) and safety policies.
- Identify hazards and operational risks associated with flight training activities.
- Reinforce safe operating practices and regulatory compliance among instructors and students.
Administrative & Program Support
- Assist with instructor selection, onboarding, training, scheduling, and evaluation.
- Support student training progression, including monitoring progress, addressing deficiencies, and coordinating remedial training when necessary.
- Coordinate with academic leadership to ensure alignment between flight training and degree program requirements.
- Perform instructional duties as needed to support operational continuity.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of Part 141 flight training operations
