CFI Training That Gets You Ready for the Real World
You don't have to figure this out alone. Whether you're just starting your CFI journey, deep in checkride prep, or stuck on something specific, we've got your back.
We've built 3 ways to support you through your training, from ongoing community practice, to small group focused prep, to one-on-one coaching. No matter where you are in your CFI journey, there's a spot for you here:

Stay Sharp
CFI Class Pass
Join our community of CFI candidates and practicing instructors for monthly access to our live Zoom based classes. Three classes offered weekly - perfect for ongoing checkride prep and professional development.
What you get:
- Mock Checkride Oral Prep: Practice answering examiner questions in a supportive group setting. Real scenarios, expert feedback, and the confidence that comes from repetition.
- CFI Office Hours: Bring your questions, challenges, or topics you're struggling with. Get direct answers and work through problem areas with guidance.
- CFI-I & MEI Topics: Expand beyond the basic CFI with instrument and ME instruction techniques, checkride prep, and advanced teaching scenarios.
Best for: Candidates who want consistent practice leading up to their checkride, or instructors seeking ongoing professional development.
Join the Class Pass
Go Deeper
CFI Prep Course
Our structured immersive course for serious checkride preparation. Limited to just 4 students per cohort for maximum individual feedback and coaching.
What you get:
- 4 Google Meet sessions (1.5 hours each) - designed to give you the confidence, teaching skills, and structure you need to excel as a flight instructor
- Small group format - Never more than 4 students, so you get real coaching, not lecture
- Structured progression - Each week builds on the last, covering FOIs, ground lessons, flight lessons, an ad-hoc lesson, pre and post-flight briefings and checkride prep
- New cohorts monthly - Courses start the first week of each month
Best for: Candidates who want immersive, structured preparation and guidance with more personal attention.
Reserve Your Spot
Get Focused
1:1 Instruction
Sometimes you need undivided attention on specific challenges. Book one-on-one sessions for targeted help on whatever you're struggling with.
What you get:
- Personalized coaching on your specific weak areas
- Flexible scheduling - Book sessions when you need them
- Direct feedback - No group dynamics, just focused work on your needs
- Open to everyone - Not just Class Pass members
Best for: Addressing specific gaps, final checkride preparation, or anyone who prefers individual instruction.
The CFI Prep Course was honestly one of the best training experiences I’ve had!

Your Instructor
Gold Seal CFI | Assistant Chief Pilot | FAASTeam Rep | USAF Vet
Marcus' approach emphasizes practical teaching skills over rote memorization - because the best CFIs don't just know the material, they know how to teach it effectively and communicate it clearly under pressure.
Ready to Start Your CFI Training?
Choose the path that fits you:
CFI Class Pass
Ongoing group practice to keep you sharp, keep growing, and prepared.
CFI Prep Course
Small group training to give you the confidence, skills & structure to excel.
1:1 Training
Focused training, specific to YOU and your flight instructor checkride prep!
Marcus is incredibly humble, extremely knowledgeable, and brings a great sense of humor that makes the entire process enjoyable.
FAQ
Can I try a class before committing to the Class Pass?
Yes! Definitely. The first week is on us. Just sign up, attend a week of classes, and if it's not for you just cancel it from your account.
What's the difference between the Class Pass and the Prep Course?
The Class Pass gives you ongoing access to three weekly group classes for continuous practice and development.
The CFI Prep Course is a 4-week, small group training program designed to provide structure, confidence, and guidance with a focus on teaching lessons.
Many students use the Class Pass for consistent big picture advice and preparation, and add in the Prep Course for more personal instruction and feedback focused on their teaching.
Do I need to be a Class Pass member to take the Prep Course?
No, the Prep Course is standalone. However, many students find the combination powerful - use the Class Pass for ongoing practice and the Prep Course for more immersive, personalized preparation.
When do new Prep Course cohorts start?
The first week of every month. Limited to 4 students per cohort.
Is this training FAA-approved?
Our training supplements your FAA-required flight instruction to help prepare you for the oral exam portion of your CFI checkrides. All students must complete required flight training with a qualified instructor per FAA regulations.
On top of gaining a ton of knowledge, I also walked away with new friends from across the country, which made the whole experience even better.
Just a Heads Up
All live classes are recorded. By participating, you consent to recording and agree to our Terms & Conditions. Backseat Pilot training supplements but does not replace FAA-required flight instruction and certification requirements.

