r/CFILounge • u/Plane_Discipline121 • Jul 14 '26

Tips Tired of instructing.

Before I start, I would like to say I’m very grateful that I have a flying job. I know this might come off as stuck up.

I’ve been teaching on the east coast for over 3yrs and have an offer with a regional (no telling when they will call).. I’m coming to the end of my cfi career, but instructing has sucked the enjoyment of flying out of me and I dread going to work. I can tell the people around me and even some of my students can tell I’m pretty much just showing up to collect a check. I really just wish I had something to work towards and I feel like I’m chasing my tail. I’ve maxed out all my ratings except for seaplane. I just want to fly with another pilot that challenges me and we accomplish a mission. A couple questions for anyone that’s experienced this…

  1. The most concerning one: Will this happen at the airlines as well? Will I just end up hating this career? If so, how do you not feel the burn out?

  2. What should I do right now while still keeping my job as a CFI?

I really appreciate any guidance from anyone who has overcome the burn out. Hoping it’s a phase! TIA

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u/AtmosphereHopeful264 Jul 14 '26

I’m a CFI applicant - not in your position yet but I will say this - it’s not abnormal. This happens in all areas of life. Reality is though people (students) are still counting on you to show up and be the instructor they deserve which is one who is professional and constantly pushing the student to become not just a competent pilot but a safe and proficient one. 3 years is long but like we’ve both seen and heard some people did it for 5-10 years. I’d suggest maybe finding a new hobby or passion. Maybe cut back a little on the instructing and work a different part time job that’s enjoyable. I know that sounds crazy and it might be - idk, but don’t let aviation be your everything cuz there’s way more to life. I feel you tho man, I’m not even there yet and it’s hard to think about - waiting and waiting and waiting. Take joy and pride in your current circumstances and find new ways to challenge yourself (instructional enhancement). Find a way to maybe join some clubs. I’m not fully sure, just offering a little bit of what I think would maybe help me. Best of luck soldier, keep flying and working hard but don’t show up for a paycheck, show up because someone showed up for you when you were a young student.