Hi. So i’m an ATP, about 10k hrs, no accidents or incidents, almost all of which was in Alaska 135 in Cessnas, Beavers, Navajos and Cubs. Wheels and floats. It was fun.

Two years ago I got really burned out on 135 tho after a particularly crummy gig and took a completely different course. Well turns out now I miss flying.

Here’s the deal tho- I really don’t want to do anymore 135 stuff or go into the 121 world. Maybe that’s a bad move career wise and financially but honestly I don’t want flying jobs to dominate my life anymore. Not wanting to do more time in the bush or live in hotels for a large portion of my life.

I’m 49, single, and have a dog too. Labrador Retriever obviously

Soo, I’ve been really thinking about becoming a CFI. I never did instruct and got into AK 135 by working as an A&P first and building time on my own toward 135 mins years ago.

I’d really appreciate hearing from people who are long term or career flight instructors. Maybe recommendations on a place to get CFI’d and maybe move into a paying position? I’m kinda out of the loop on flight schools in the lower 48. I would prefer to stay West Coast but am really flexible. Just looking for QOL. Maybe somewhere warmer, wow that would be nice!

Things like- can you make enough money at it to pay the rent and bills? Do most flight schools offer health insurance? Do you enjoy it? That kind of stuff. I imagine there’s a fair bit of job satisfaction when you really help people get into flying too?

Thank you in advance!