Chief Flight Instructor (FW)

VACANCY: Chief Flight Instructor (FW)

Reporting to: Deputy Head of Training

Location: Durban, South Africa

Starlite Aviation Training Academy (Pty) Ltd has a requirement for a safety-conscious, technically proficient, and highly reliable professional to fill the position of Chief Flight Instructor (FW). The role will be based in Durban, South Africa.

You will be responsible for the delivery of the SACAA-approved and international flying training programmes at Starlite Aviation. You will be responsible for the integration of all flying, simulator, and ground theory training, as well as trainee and instructor training delivery. You will represent Starlite Aviation Training Academy within the flight training industry when required and ensure that flight safety and all ground and air activities are conducted in accordance with best practice and relevant regulations while delivering training excellence and effective oversight.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Ensure standardised techniques and discipline among flight personnel, and that training is carried out in accordance with the TPM.
• Perform competency checks of all instructors and monitor and develop them within the company.
• Maintain complete oversight of all Grade II and Grade III instructors, including their theoretical lecturing.
• Check and monitor that all administrative tasks relating to instructors' training files, documentation, reports, and debriefs are kept up to date.
• Ensure the thorough and comprehensive induction and orientation of new flight training staff.
• Ensure the thorough and comprehensive induction and orientation of new students.
• Perform student dual checks as specified in the TPM.
• Discuss month-end reports with contract sponsors and conduct monthly check-ins with civilian and contract students.
• Maintain a professional image when dealing with clients and external service providers.
• Finalise all contract-related reports as required.
• Ensure all standard requirements, systems, aircraft equipment, and processes are in place to successfully pass a CAA audit.
• Ensure that all operational irregularities (incidents and accident reports) are thoroughly investigated and appropriate action is taken in conjunction with the Head of Training and the Quality and Safety Manager.
• Oversee the daily and monthly flight programme to ensure the maximum and efficient utilisation of aircraft and instructors while ensuring student progression.
• Manage and promote the Company's non-punitive Just Culture safety philosophy.
• Perform all duties relating to flying and ground instruction in accordance with the TPM.
• Comply with all Company and SACAA policies and procedures, with specific reference to Flight and Duty Time, licence currency requirements (including CRM and DG), and the TPM.
• Remain current with red tags, aviation legislation, CATS & CARs, AICs, AIPs, and NOTAMs.

Critical Requirements

• 3 years' Training Management (CFI) experience.
• Military flying training experience.
• Human Factors Instructor qualification.
• Flight Safety Officer qualification.
• SMS experience.
• Experience in course design.

Qualifications and Experience

The following are essential for this position:

• Grade 12.
• SACAA CPL (FW) Licence with a Grade II Instructor Rating.
• Minimum of 1,000 instructional flying hours.
• Previous CFI experience.
• CPL and ATPL qualifications.
• Multi-engine Rating.
• Excellent written and spoken English with ICAO ELP proficiency.
• In-depth understanding of all relevant SACAA manuals and regulations.
• Willingness to travel domestically as required by the Company.

The above position will be filled in accordance with the Recruitment and Selection Policy to achieve the Group's objectives and goals.

Should you not receive a response within two (2) weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Applicants must submit their CV by 30 July 2026.