Single instructor flight training operators

A single instructor flight training operator (FTO) holds a Part 141 certificate and operate with one flight instructor. 

As a single instructor Part 141 operator, you don’t need to have a separate chief operating officer (CEO) or head of operations. 

This structure gives you more flexibility: 

  • You can use a simplified on-line application process and pay standard fees.
  • You don’t have to complete an annual standardisation and proficiency check. 
  • You don’t need approval to use a different training base (except for pilot licence, instrument and instructor rating training).

With this structure, you must follow our sample operations manual when you develop your operations manual.

You can only provide training that appears on your Part 141 certificate. You must also hold the necessary Part 61 training endorsements and have the training course documented in your operations manual.

Apply to become a single instructor Part 141 FTO

As a flight instructor, you can apply for a single instructor Part 141 certificate to provide flight training through our streamlined approval process. We’ll issue a Part 141 certificate which lists the flight training you have approval to deliver.

  1. Download the guide to understanding the sample manual

    Download the guide to help you use the sample manual template:

  2. Get a copy of the sample manual

    Download the following sample manual:

  3. Make your changes

    You must use the single instructor Part 141 sample operations manual to be eligible for the streamlined pathway. Where indicated, update the content of the manual to show how you plan to conduct and manage flight training activities.

    The scope and complexity of your operation will determine what parts of the manual you change. Refer to the user guide for help. It explains each section and the things you need to consider.

    You will need to provide other details in the specified areas, including:

    • your facilities
    • types of aircraft
    • personnel.

  4. Generate your syllabuses

    To help streamline the assessment process, we encourage you to use the sample syllabus template when preparing your application to be a single instructor Part 141 FTO. Using the template can reduce the need for further clarification and support a more efficient assessment.

    View the sample syllabuses.

  5. Review the checklist

    Check that the manual meets your needs as a single instructor. Before you submit, make sure you have included:

    • the publication details such as publication dates, file names and titles
    • your flight training syllabuses
    • the list of amendments and revision history
    • the page numbers and footers
    • the table of contents.

  6. Log into myCASA

    Log into myCASA or create a myCASA account.

  7. Find the form

    Use the search bar at the top of the page to find:

    • Application Flight Training Operator Certificate – Single instructor

    You can search by keyword.

  8. Complete the form

    Open the form and complete the fields in myCASA. Include the kind of flight training activity you plan to conduct. This may include flight training for a:

    • recreational pilot licence (RPL) – specify the aircraft category rating
      • RPL endorsements
    • private pilot licence (PPL) – specify the aircraft category rating
    • commercial pilot licence (CPL) – specify the aircraft category rating
    • aircraft class or type rating
    • operational rating and associated endorsements
    • training for flight reviews – specify the ratings the reviews are for.

    Attach your manual and other support documents to your application.

  9. Submit your application

    Submit your application through myCASA. We’ll email you to confirm receipt.

    Contact us for further support.

After you submit your documentation

We'll review your application and contact you if we need more information. You must address any issues we identify within a reasonable timeframe to avoid any delays in progressing your application.

Cancel an application

To cancel your application after paying the fee, contact us in writing. We will charge costs for any work completed before you cancel.

Outcome of assessment

We'll let you know if we accept or decline your application after our assessment.

If approved, we'll issue the Part 141 certificate relevant to your operation.

Streamlined assessment pathway

A streamlined application and assessment pathway is available.

However, timeframes may vary and rely on:

  • when we receive your payment
  • the availability of our resources.

We'll provide an estimation of the time required when we receive your payment.

Pay the fee

This streamlined application and assessment pathway for a Part 141 certificate has a fee of $1,560. For this pathway, you must use the sample operations manual and sample syllabuses.

You must pay the fee before we can process your application.

After receiving your completed application form, we'll also let you know if we need any additional information.

Related content

Related rules and publications

Last updated:
27 Oct 2026
Online version available at: https://www.casa.gov.au//licences-and-certificates/air-operators/flight-training-operators/single-instructor-flight-training-operators
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