Fast Track CFI Program
Become a Certified Flight Instructor in 7-9 Months
- Career-ready CFI in 7-9 months
- Up to 260 logged flight hours
- Add multi-engine or CFII later
- Start earning sooner
- Lower upfront investment
Start Earning Sooner
The CFI Fast Track gets you earning in 7-9 months. Build hours while getting paid, then decide your next step.
7-9 Months to Start Earning
2-3 Years to Start Earning
Calculation Assumptions: Earnings based on average hourly CFI pay at full-time work. Some CFIs may earn substantially more working as an independent instructor. Actual earnings vary based on student load and hours worked.
By completing training in 7-9 months instead of 2-3 years, you start earning 1-2 years sooner. That's $100,000+ in additional income.
The CFI Fast Track Advantage:
- Start Earning Sooner: Be a working CFI in under a year instead of 2-3 years
- Lower Investment: $69,495 vs $94,995 for the Airline Fast Track Program
- Flexible Path: Add multi-engine or CFII when YOU're ready
- Build Hours Fast: Full-time instructing builds 800-1000 hours per year
- Career Options: Corporate, charter, continue instructing, or add your multi-commercial and go to the airlines!
The CFI Fast Track is the smart choice for pilots who want to start earning while keeping their options open.
Why Students Choose US Flight Co
Hear from our graduates now flying for major airlines
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See the actual journey from zero to airline pilot
Walk through our state-of-the-art training center
Get to know the experienced pilots who will train you
The Fast Track Path: 5 Steps to Your CFI Career
Our proven path takes you from zero experience to certified flight instructor in 7-9 months
Master the Fundamentals
Private Pilot Certificate
Learn to safely operate an aircraft, master basic flight maneuvers, complete your first solo flight, and earn your first certificate.
- Fly yourself anywhere in the country
- Take friends and family on flights
- Command an aircraft solo with confidence
Precision Flight Mastery
Instrument Rating
Learn to fly through clouds and weather using only instruments. Master the skills that separate hobbyists from professionals.
- Navigate through any weather conditions
- Fly the same procedures airlines use
- Control the aircraft without seeing outside
Professional Flight Operations
Commercial Pilot Certificate
Become a professional pilot. Learn advanced maneuvers and operations required to fly for compensation.
- You're now a professional pilot
- Legally fly for compensation
- Master advanced maneuvers and precision
Instructor Certification
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Master the art of teaching flight. Develop advanced communication skills, deepen your aeronautical knowledge, and learn to recover from spins.
- Teach the next generation of pilots
- Start earning income immediately
- Build hours and experience
Start Your Career
Begin Instructing
Start teaching students, earning $26-30/hour, and building hours and experience. Your path is open—continue instructing, add ratings, or transition to corporate, charter, or airlines.
- Earn while you build hours
- Flexible schedule as a CFI
- Path to airlines, corporate, or charter when ready
Your Outcome: Start Earning & Building Hours in 7-9 Months
Complete the CFI Fast Track in 7-9 months with 260 logged hours and your CFI certificate. Then start building hours and experience while earning $26-30/hour as an instructor. Add CFII or multi-engine ratings later when you're ready.
From Mechanics to Dream Builders
We spent years fixing aircraft. Then we realized—the real thing that was broken was the system crushing student pilots' dreams.
Back in 2015, I started working in aviation as an A&P mechanic after finishing mechanic school. Got my private pilot license in 2016. Worked my way through Duncan Aviation, Oracle Aviation, then Winterset Aviation—eventually buying that business from my now-partner, Michael Sawyer.
We loved aviation. But there was something we kept seeing that made us sick...
80% of people who start flight training never get their license.
Not because they couldn't do it. But because the system was designed to fail them.
My partner Michael Sawyer had worked for a flight school in Denver and saw the massive opportunity in Des Moines. There was literally no commercial flight school in the area.
The local flying club didn't even answer the phone. The few instructors around were part-time, treated it like a side hustle, and had terrible availability.
Your options if you wanted to become a professional pilot?
- Train with part-time instructors who barely returned calls, constantly canceled, and disappeared the moment they got an airline job
- Go to one of those massive out-of-state "pilot mills" with horror stories all over the internet—known for rushing students through, leaving them unprepared, and treating them like cattle
- Or spend 4+ years and hundreds of thousands of dollars on a college aviation program
Every option sucked. And 8 out of 10 people were giving up before ever finishing.
That's when we decided to test something different.
In 2019, we launched US Flight Co with one aircraft and a rundown shared office. The floor was filthy, cords running everywhere, and there was this nasty little Christmas tree on a shelf that stayed up all year (I still laugh about that).
We weren't sure if it would work. But within 2-3 months, we had full classes of 8 students and leads pouring in.
People were desperate for this. They wanted a career change—but didn't want to waste 4 years in college or get chewed up by a pilot mill.
The biggest challenge? Financing. Most people couldn't pay $95K cash. We partnered with lenders, but they kept failing. So we did something crazy: We started our own financing company—US Flight Finance—so we could fund students ourselves.
Why? Because we actually believe in them.
Today, we've trained hundreds of students. We've got guys like Sam Leslie flying for Republic Airways, Johnny Martin flying professionally in Ohio, and Seth Thomas flying Caravans in Alaska. We operate out of Signature Aviation's stunning $12M+ new facility with our own dedicated space, a fleet of modern aircraft, and full-time instructors who are invested in your success.
And our students? Over 90% complete their training—when 80% of student pilots nationwide quit before ever finishing.
We built the school we wish existed back when we were starting out. No games. No side hustles. No pilot mills.
Just a real shot at your dream career.
Thousands of hours logged in safe, professional training
Teaching is their career, not a side job
Single & multi-engine trainers ready when you are
80% of students nationwide never finish
What This Means For You
- Train with modern glass cockpit technology
- Learn the same principles professional pilots use
- Get unlimited simulator time included—saving you thousands in extra costs
- In-house maintenance means better aircraft availability and fewer delays
- Train at a beautiful new facility while feeling like a member of the team
- Get personalized attention in dedicated briefing rooms (not a crowded lobby)
Everything You Need. One Complete Package
Your $69,495 investment includes every certification through CFI, 260 flight hours, all materials, and full support.
Private Pilot CertificateMonths 1-3
Instrument RatingMonths 3-5
Commercial Pilot CertificateMonths 5-6
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)Months 6-9
Flight Training Hours
Additional Benefits
Not Included: Sales tax, 3rd party examiner & testing fees, iPad with ForeFlight subscription.
Complete CFI Fast Track Program Investment
Everything listed above included. Multiple payment options available.
110+ Five-Star Reviews Tell the Story
See why pilots trust US Flight Co with their aviation career
"As parents of a son graduating high-school, we didn't know the first thing about Flight School. We couldn't be happier with our son's experience in the Fast Track Program at US Flight Co. The process was seamless, the instructors were excellent, and he was able to complete his training in a year without sacrificing quality. At 19 years old, he is now a CFII at US Flight Co. A proud moment for our family—highly recommend!"
"I started my aviation journey with US Flight Co last October and have been really pleased with the company as a whole, the administrative team, the instructors (S/O to Josh!!) and the pace of the program. About 8 months in, I'm preparing for my commercial check ride and hope to complete my CFI rating by next month."
"After having talked with several different flight schools and also several discovery flights, I chose US Flight Co because they were able to answer my questions and address my concerns with a unique approach rather than cookie cutter answers. They actually listened to me and adapted their training to fit my schedule. Whether you are going all the way to the airlines or just looking into a new hobby, US flight Co and the CFIs are genuinely interested in working with you as an individual."
Your Questions Answered
Everything you need to know about the CFI Fast Track Program
"Why stop at CFI instead of going all the way to CFII and multi-engine?"
The CFI Fast Track is designed for pilots who want to start earning and building hours as quickly as possible. At $69,495 vs $94,995 for the full airline track, you save $25,500 upfront and start earning 2-3 months sooner. Once you're working as a CFI and building hours, you can add CFII ($5,000-8,000) or multi-engine time ($3,000-5,000) when you're ready financially. Many pilots prefer this "pay as you go" approach rather than financing everything upfront. You can always upgrade—the CFI certificate never expires.
"How much do CFIs actually make?"
At US Flight Co, we start CFIs at $26/hour and after getting CFII, you can earn up to $30/hour. Our top instructors earn up to $62,000 per year, but it depends on how many students you have and how busy you want to be. Some instructors supplement with another part-time job, while others fly full-time and build 800-1000 hours per year. The key benefit: you're earning while building hours and experience instead of paying to fly.
"What if I decide I want to go to the airlines later?"
The CFI Fast Track gives you all the foundation you need. To be airline-ready, you'd add: (1) Multi-engine rating (~25 hours, ~$5,000), (2) CFII if you want to instruct instrument students (~$5,000-8,000). By the time you hit 1,500 hours instructing, you'll have the money and experience to add these ratings. Many pilots prefer this approach—get certified, start earning, then upgrade as needed. You're not locked into anything.
"Can I really finish in 7-9 months?"
Yes, with full-time commitment of 5-7 flight lessons per week plus ground school and study time. The CFI track is actually faster than the full airline track because you're not adding multi-engine and CFII. Our fastest CFI graduates have finished in under 7 months. If you need to train part-time around work, expect 12-18 months, which is still faster than traditional training at other schools.
"Will I have enough students to actually build hours?"
Student demand for flight training has never been higher. The pilot shortage means more people are pursuing aviation careers, and they all need instructors. At US Flight Co, our CFIs typically have full schedules. We prioritize our own graduates for instructor positions, so you're not competing with outside applicants. Most of our Fast Track grads instruct with us until they hit 1,500 hours.
"What if I don't want to go to the airlines at all?"
Perfect—the CFI track is ideal for you! Many pilots become CFIs because they love teaching, want flexible schedules, or prefer the lifestyle over airline flying. Others use CFI hours to transition to corporate flying, charter operations, or single-pilot turboprop jobs (like flying for small corporations). The 1,500-hour ATP requirement only applies to scheduled airlines. Corporate and charter jobs often hire at lower hours. Your CFI certificate opens doors beyond the airlines.
"What's included in the $69,495?"
Everything from zero to CFI: Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, and CFI certificates. You get 260 flight hours (210 aircraft + 50 simulator), all ground school courses, study materials, headset, flight bag, and supplies. All checkride fees are included. The only extras are sales tax, FAA medical exam, and your iPad with ForeFlight. There are no hidden costs or surprise fees—$69,495 is your complete investment.
Still have questions?
Train Confidently. Experience US Flight Co Risk-Free
Start training with complete financial protection. No long-term commitment. Pay only for what you use.
How Our Guarantee Works
You can discontinue your training at any time. You'll only pay for what you use. Your remaining investment is fully refunded, and all training hours transfer to most other flight schools.
Discontinue Anytime
No long-term contracts. Pause or stop your training whenever you choose. No penalties.
Pay Only for Hours Used
You're only charged for the flight hours you've completed. Unused payments are refunded in full.
Logged Hours Are Yours
All your hours and certifications are yours to keep and will transfer to other flight schools.
Flexible Financing. Start Today
Your $69,495 investment shouldn't hold you back. Choose the payment plan that works for your situation.
Pay in Thirds
- Three equal payments (includes checkride & testing fees)
- No interest or financing fees
- Payment 1: To secure your spot
- Payment 2: After Private Pilot
- Payment 3: After Commercial
US Flight Finance
- Down payments starting at $5,000
- Competitive rates for qualified applicants
- We handle the entire process for you
- Fast approval decisions
- Built specifically for flight training
Bank or Personal Loan
- Secure financing through your own bank
- Pay us in installments or full
- Use AOPA Pilot Finance or any lender of your choice
- We'll work with your payment schedule
- 100% flexibility on your terms
The Math Makes Sense
Even with financing, your monthly investment returns to you many times over:
We've helped many students secure financing. Our team will guide you through every step and help you choose the best option for your situation.
Why Starting Now Matters
Every month you wait is another month you could be earning as a CFI. Start building hours and income sooner.
Training Starts in Weeks, Not Months
Our January class begins in just weeks. If you miss this window, you're waiting until our next cohort—pushing your airline timeline back 3+ months and costing you thousands in delayed earnings.
We Maintain Small Class Sizes
Unlike mega-schools cramming 30+ students per class, we cap enrollment to ensure every student gets dedicated instructor attention. Only 4 spots left means we're nearly at capacity.
Position Yourself for Hiring Surges
Airlines hire in waves. Starting now means you'll complete training and build hours before the next surge. Students who delay often miss opportunities because they're not ready when airlines are hiring.
The Real Cost of Waiting "Just One More Year"
Every year you delay is a year of airline salary you'll never get back
Real Students. Real Results
See how our graduates transformed their careers
"As parents of a son graduating high-school, we didn't know the first thing about Flight School. We couldn't be happier with our son's experience in the Fast Track Program at US Flight Co. The process was seamless, the instructors were excellent, and he was able to complete his training in a year without sacrificing quality. At 19 years old, he is now a CFII at US Flight Co. A proud moment for our family—highly recommend!"
"I started my aviation journey with US Flight Co last October and have been really pleased with the company as a whole, the administrative team, the instructors (S/O to Josh!!) and the pace of the program. About 8 months in, I'm preparing for my commercial check ride and hope to complete my CFI rating by next month."
"Pursuing a passion for flying is a significant investment of time and money. I did a lot of research before choosing US Flight Co. and I'm really satisfied with my decision. I was pleased to find great facilities, well maintained aircraft, kind and professional staff, and flexible and efficient scheduling. I started with no experience and was able to pass my private pilot check ride with no problem. The instructors are patient and professional and built my knowledge, skills, and confidence in a way that kept it light and fun the whole time."
"After having talked with several different flight schools and also several discovery flights, I chose US Flight Co because they were able to answer my questions and address my concerns with a unique approach rather than cookie cutter answers. They actually listened to me and adapted their training to fit my schedule. Whether you are going all the way to the airlines or just looking into a new hobby, US flight Co and the CFIs are genuinely interested in working with you as an individual."
"US Flight Co has been amazing with my aviation journey so far! Started flying at the end of 2024, currently working towards my instrument rating. They have been super flexible and easy to work with, considering I'm in the fast track program with a full time job. Instructors are safe, knowledgeable and fun to fly with. I look forward to continuing my aviation journey with them!"
"I Joined US flight Co about 10 hours into my PPL and have been with them since. My experience has been nothing but positive and they have far exceeded my expectations. They have great Instructors, reliable aircraft, great availability, and most importantly it's all at a very reasonable price. The instructor cadre are very clearly experts in their field and are passionate about ensuring their students are safe pilots and well prepared for their checkride. Aircraft rentals at US flight Co are well priced and well maintained. TLDR: Great people, fantastic instructors all at a reasonable price!"
Ready to Start Your Airline Career?
Start your Fast Track application - takes less than 2 minutes