Im 42, is that too old get my pilots license and become a flight instructor?

Question

Im 42, is that too old get my pilots license and become a flight instructor?

Answer 1

If its something you really want to do, I would go for it. You only have so much time to do the stuff you love, do it while you can, take chances, as long its something that your not likely to give up on easily.

Answer 2

As long as you are able to fly, you can become a pilot. In fact, older students add a unique perspective and understanding to the learning process and often bring more to the table when airlines are looking to hire pilots.

Also know that airline pilots can now fly until 65! On December 11, 2007 the US House of Representatives passed a bill that would rescind the mandatory retirement age of 60 for pilots. The bill was quickly approved, and President Bush signed the law.

If you live in Florida, check out http://www.pea.com, I know them and they have been in business for years.

Enjoy have fun and always remain young at heart.

Answer 3

I did it at 53

Answer 4

Years ago I met a fella who got his CFI when he was in his 50's  He said it was something he always wanted to.  So do you feel old?  If not then go for it.

Answer 5

absolutely not. I am approaching 50 real soon. I just (in the past 6 mos) got my CFI and CFII  In fact, I am thinking about retiring early(sorta, I am self employed ) and instructing full time as I am currently turning away ALLOT of students.

Answer 6

If you don't think it's too old, I won't.

Answer 7

Nope, not at all. Go for it! In fact, I'm trying to convince a friend of mine to do it, and he's 52. I also know two active instructors who are over 75 (both women), so if you can stay healthy, you still have a long career ahead of you if you want it.  I also worked for a flight school many years ago that was started by a guy having a midlife crisis and he was also around 50 when he got his CFI. By the time he retired at 70 he was not only a highly experienced and respected pilot, he had a viable business to turn over to his grand kids who were still running the school, last I knew.

I'll also add that you have a couple of assets. Being older and wiser about life in general will net you the older students who are not comfortable flying with young instructors who are barely able shave and only have their eyes set on an eventual airline career. A lot of them are not good instructors nor are they particularly interested in becoming good instructors. You, on the other hand, can dedicate yourself to becoming a very good one. It takes being a teacher at heart first, and a pilot second.  

Your other asset is that, presuming you are female as you have given your name as "Jane", you will be a magnet for the female students. Many of them do not do as well with male instructors who are either too intimidating, do not communicate well with women (men are from Mars, women are from Venus, don't you know) or forgive me for saying so, they are sometimes more interested in getting into their pants. One way or another, these female students either struggle really hard or they give up. I have seen this time and time again over my career. You'd be a good role model and great antidote for that.

As I said...Go for it, you are definitely not too young! Good luck

Answer 8

No, not as long as you can pass all of the tests....including the medical requirements.

Answer 9

I've been flying since I was a kid, and I love it a bunch.  I did let my CFI expire, but when I have some time, I might reinstate it and start teaching again.  It's a lot of fun, and right now it's in demand.  Like the previous poster said, kids are just teaching to get the time built up to go fly for an airline.  I had many instructors when I was learning tell me they would be around, only to leave a month later for a better job.  I would love to have someone who would stick around a bit longer.  I think you would really enjoy it.  What's stopping you?  If you need a good motivator, read the book I list below.  Good luck!

Answer 10

No.

Answer 11

your never too old to learn