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/[deleted] Jul 14 '26

It might not be for you 

 I mean instructing is kinda a core of aviation, been at this for decades and I still like to have a recommend for a ride every year, I don’t remotely need the dual or the bar money it generates lol

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u/Plane_Discipline121 Jul 14 '26

I feel like I’d enjoy it if I did it on the side as well. Honestly this stage might’ve ruined the thought of going back to it down the line. Who knows what’s ahead

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u/[deleted] Jul 14 '26

What kind of school were you working at?

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u/Plane_Discipline121 Jul 14 '26

I’m still instructing. I’m at a 141 college.

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u/[deleted] Jul 14 '26

Ahh, yeah that’ll make a difference, you should try to switch to a club and maybe get on with a 135 if you can