(One of the things I'm aware of is that...) You certainly can gain your FI(R) and instruct with a PPL(A) only but you need to have completed your CPL (or ATPL) theory exams and have 150hrs PIC (as opposed to 100hrs PIC if holding a CPL)...anyone please do correct me if I'm wrong.
One of the things I'm not aware of and would be interested to know about (being in the position of always having wanted to instruct but struggling to finance a CPL AND an FI(R) right now)... do many clubs go on to use PPL instructors? How are they viewed in the general world? (I know that individual skills/abilities/person to person interaction/communication/enthusiasm etc. is more important than a general view but it still gives an idea!)
Also how do CPL FI(R)s feel about PPL FI(R)s coming in and instructing "for free". I certainly wouldn't want to put noses out of joint of already struggling CPL holding FIs as despite instructing not being a lucrative passage even holding a CPL the money is obviously important to them.
In short I'm totally enthusiastic about flying and would love to develop my own skills aswell as have the (totally awesome, in the true meaning of the word, in my opinion) task of imparting the skills and knowledge and enthusiasm to others...but like many people, I am lacking in funds! Is this a possible route to follow in the current climate?
Thanks, CS