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Hi all,

I have started a series that involves interviewing various FAA Designated Examiners. Any burning questions out there? Of course I'll always ask what weaknesses they observe with the majority of the candidates and how to improve on it. But there are plenty of good questions. Let me know if you have any and I'll ask away.
a

This is a great idea; thanks for putting this together.

One thing I've wondered is how predisposed an examiner is to passing you if he's very familiar with your CFI? In the New York area many of our checkrides are given out of Bayport by "Frank"... If NY airspace had a mayor it would be Frank-- He's known to every Approach Controller in the area by voice alone. He's been doing airmen certification since before I was born and he knows every CFI and their "product" quite well. It's a great experience to get in an airplane with him, his local knowledge is amazing.

My CFI was pretty seasoned, he was 32 and had been instructing for the better part of a decade. The two weeks leading up to my checkride we did three checkride prep flights during which he gave me very specific (and as it turned out, accurate) coaching on what Frank would be looking for-- Right down to my handwriting on the flight plan.

On that morning they greeted each other like old friends and I have to believe I had an unearned advantage.

Similarly, I wonder if examiners have preferences for one aircraft type over another. Frank is a Cessna fan; and I showed up in a 172... Perhaps another advantage?

Hi there,

Just from my own knowledge of the area, yes, the examiners are familiar with the local CFI's. However, this doesn't necessarily give the advantage. To have a DPE's confidence requires a CFI to send a succession of students that are at an acceptable level of proficiency. The DPE does want you to pass, but also is keenly aware that they are signing their name on a line that holds them responsible for your actions as a licensed pilot. That's a pretty big responsibility. From the conversations I have had so far, the DPE is assessing you on multiple levels. If you can demonstrate safety, and ability to adhere to regulations and so be it, to know precisely the questions he is asking-they don't expect you to know everything. But do expect you to know a lot. If you feel comfortable in your knowledge then don't sell yourself short because you thought the check-ride was easier on you. He still is taking the responsibility and signing his name.
As far as airplane make and model, no, I think for the most part, it really doesn't (or shouldn't) make a difference. Every examiner has preferences though, and it is helpful to get briefed before hand as you experienced
Thanks for the thoughts, I will be sure to ask.
a