From the Examiner's Chair

Welcome

Every practical test tells a story.

Every applicant arrives with a unique combination of knowledge, training, judgment, and experience. As a Designated Pilot Examiner, I have the privilege of seeing what successful applicants do well — and where others struggle. Often it's not a lack of ability. It's that they haven't yet learned to apply what they know.

From the Examiner's Chair is a series of articles for pilots and instructors on FAA practical tests, aeronautical decision-making, risk management, and scenario-based training.

The purpose of this series is not to reveal "checkride secrets" or teach applicants how to pass a practical test. Instead, these articles are intended to help applicants and flight instructors better understand the knowledge, risk management, and decision-making skills described in the Airman Certification Standards (ACS). A successful practical test is usually the natural result of thorough preparation, sound judgment, and the ability to apply what you know.

The topics discussed here come from real observations made during practical tests. Individual applicants, instructors, aircraft, and testing events are never identified — but the lessons are real.

Whether you're preparing for your first Private Pilot checkride, working toward a Flight Instructor certificate, or helping someone else achieve their aviation goals, I hope these articles encourage you to think beyond memorizing answers and toward becoming a safer, more capable pilot.

Welcome to From the Examiner's Chair.

— Brad Kramer
FAA Designated Pilot Examiner

Editorial Philosophy

Every article in this series is built around one simple principle:

Knowledge is only the beginning.

Pilots must know regulations, systems, weather, and aircraft performance. But aviation is a profession of judgment. Safe pilots continuously apply that knowledge to changing circumstances, evaluate risk, and make thoughtful decisions.

That is the purpose of scenario-based training.

That is the purpose of the Airman Certification Standards.

And ultimately, that is the purpose of the practical test.

My hope is that these articles help applicants and instructors focus less on finding the "right answer" and more on understanding why that answer matters.