Chief Flight Instructor

About Vantage Aviation: 

Vantage is a fully integrated, multi-vertical business aviation firm that specializes in all things’ private aviation. Hangar leasing, fuel and ground handling support, aircraft management and charter services, flight training schools, and turbine maintenance services are all within our scope of capability and expertise. Vantage Aviation is a private equity backed, fully integrated business aviation firm pursuing FBO, MRO, Flight Training, and 135 charter acquisitions and development opportunities throughout North America. 

We seek opportunities where airport sponsors and their aviation stakeholders can benefit from our highly integrated, full-service offering. Our menus of services meet the highest Minimum Standards of Service within the industry, allowing us to provide a better service for all those who enjoy the benefits of general and business aviation. 

Position Summary: 

The Chief Flight Instructor is responsible for overseeing all flight training operations within the organization’s Part 61 and FAA-approved Part 141 training programs. This individual is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of pilot training, compliance with local, state, and FAA regulations, and operational safety. As the principal authority on flight training, the Chief Flight Instructor develops curricula, supervises instructional staff, and ensures that pilots are properly trained and qualified in accordance with Part 61 and 141 operational requirements.  

 Duties & Responsibilities: 

• Act as the divisional leader for all of Vantage Aviation’s flight school programs.  
• Develop, implement, and maintain training programs in accordance with FAA Part 141 regulations and company policies.  
• Demonstrate effective leadership and supervision of flight instructor staff, assigned staff, and flight students to achieve standardized instructions to establish educational goals.  
• Manage operational planning related to student progress, equipment acquisition, curriculum development and program strategies.  
• Maintain flight school documentation and academic records in accordance with FAA and Vantage Aviation policies and directives.  
• Supervise and evaluate flight instructors, ensuring consistent instructional quality and regulatory compliance.  
• Conduct initial, recurrent, upgrade, and remedial training for company instructors as required.  
• Oversee the scheduling and coordination of training events, including ground school, simulator sessions, and check rides.  
• Ensure training records are accurate, complete, and properly maintained.  
• Serve as the liaison with the FAA regarding training standards, curriculum updates, audits, and regulatory matters.  
• Knowledge and understanding of FAR Part 141 and 61 requirements and flight school operations.  
• Administer and evaluate written and practical exams as necessary. 
• Recommend pilots for checks or rechecks as necessary.  
• Monitor regulatory updates and incorporate changes into training programs in a timely manner.  
• Promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement within the training department.  
• Assist with student registration as required.  
• Participate in recruitment events as required. 
• Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment in daily duties.  
• Possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range. of individuals and constituencies, including intercompany executives.  
• Oversee multiple training sites remotely.  
• Be responsible for collegiate affiliations.  
• Assist in strategy for onboarding new location.  
• Be responsible for flight schools' profit and loss statement.  

Qualifications: 

• Hold all licenses required to be designated as Chief Instructor in accordance with 14 CFR 141.35(a) through 14 CFR 141.35(c) (MEI and ATP – Preferred). 
• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Instrument (CFII) 
• A minimum of 2 years' experience as a flight instructor with experience training under Part 141 operations.  
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, training practices, and operational standards. 
• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience.  
• Excellent communication, organizational, and administrative skills.  
• Ability to work flexible hours and travel as necessary. 

Preferred Experience:  

• Experience with SMS (Safety Management Systems) and FAA – approved training management systems. 
• Previous leadership position at a career advocated flight training school. 
• ATP and MEI 

Physical Requirements: 

• Must meet FAA medical standards and be able to pass a Class 2 medical exam.  

Benefits Package: 

• Bonus opportunities 
• Full Health Plan Package 
• 401K 
• Primary working hours are Monday to Friday 
• Evenings and weekends as needed. 

Compensation Package: 

$75,000 - $90,000 plus bonus opportunities.  

Location Requirements:  

• Onsite at FCI (Richmond VA) 
• Relocation package can be discussed during the interviewing process.