RST Engineering wrote:
Except that the pilot (61.133 (b) (1)) will have stamped on their
certificate a prohibition about carrying persons for hire more than 50 miles
*or* at night without an instrument rating. I'd like to see a General
Counsel interpretation as to whether this clause would also prohibit flight
instruction for hire to these limitations.

My suspicion is that it probably WOULD be interpreted with these
limitations, so cross country or night instruction would be out, and would
severely limit the instructor rating.

It sounds to me like there it's a possibility that there's come
confusion regarding the difference between holding an instrument rating
(the instructor is allowed to fly IFR) and holding a CFII (Certificated
Flight Instructor, Instrument) rating (he's allowed to teach instrument
flying). (I know you know the difference Jim, I'm being this
descriptive for the benefit of the original poster). There have been
threads here regarding attaining a commercial or CFI certificate
without an instrument rating. As I recall (and as Pete said) at least
the commercial is definitely possible. I'd also bet it's relatively
uncommon.

As for the original question regarding flying with a brand new CFI...
I'd do it. As a student and as a pilot you'll get the opportunity to
fly with several instructors of varying style and ability. Finding a
CFI who has a teaching style compatible with your learning style is way
more important than the number of years your teacher has held his
credentials. Call me crazy, but I put a little faith in the system.
When the FAA says you're worthy of the private pilot certificate, will
you trust yourself to fly yourself? The FAA says the young CFI is
worthy of teaching you to fly, and he's been through a wringer to get
them to say it.

-R