The fact that PPL instructing is badly paid and also difficult for the FTO's to make a reasonable profit out of is a given.
What astounds me (coming from a business background) is that more effort isn't made to create and sell peripheral packages that can command higher instructing rates.
CPL, ME & IR all command good rates. Surely an FTO with a little gumption could create post PPL packages that can be sold to enhance a PPL's knowledge, enjoyment, enthusiasm and safety.
Some ideas - bundled packages for Aeros, Night, IMC, Grass strip landing, mountain flying, flight over water, advanced GPS use, advanced PPL techniques, controlled Airspace and major airports, Complex SE, Winter flying etc etc.
Add on training packs will keep PPL's motivated to keep flying, improving the hire revenue.
Some FTO's have adverts for additional packs, but then make no active effort to sell them to their PPL's. Then they grumble that they can't make a living out of PPL training.
It is business after all. Sales & profit should be of interest to the FI's too.
I wouldn't want to see FI's paid commission for selling advanced packages - but someone should. Even employing a pleasant receptionist is a start.....!
