Front view of helicopter taking off over runway

Faster Wings: Why TruFlight’s Dedicated DPE is a Game Changer for Your Training

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Tired of waiting months for a checkride? Discover how TruFlight Academy uses dedicated DPE relationships to get students certified faster.

One of the most frustrating hurdles in the world of aviation isn’t learning to hover or mastering an autorotation, it’s waiting for the final exam. Across the United States, student pilots often find themselves ready for their final checkride, only to be told that an examiner isn’t available for two or three months.

Here at TruFlight, we make great efforts so that when you’re ready to fly, nothing holds you back. That’s why we’ve restructured the checkride process to put our students first.

Three Examiners, Zero Delays

To alleviate one of the industry’s biggest scheduling bottlenecks we have created a strong relationship with Designated Pilot Examiners (DPE). Our approach is simple but effective:

  1. A Dedicated DPE on Staff
    We are proud to have an examiner as a core part of our team, ensuring that checkrides are a priority, not an afterthought.

  2. Two Additional DPE Partners
    In addition to our on-staff examiner, we maintain close professional relationships with two other Designated Pilot Examiners.

This means that TruFlight students don’t have to worry about their skills getting rusty while waiting for a test date. When your instructor says you’re ready, we have the resources to get you on the schedule fast.

Meet David: Our Turbine Expert and DPE

David Lewis and family

A major part of our success is David Lewis, TruFlight’s dedicated Designated Pilot Examiner and Turbine Transition Expert. David’s journey into the cockpit began far from Texas, on a farm in New Zealand. After a “magical” first helicopter ride in an MD500 at age ten, he knew he was destined for the sky.

David eventually moved to the U.S. and completed his training right here in North Texas. Today, he brings 19 years of aviation experience to our students. Having flown various airframes across the nation, David transitioned into the role of a DPE to give back to the community that provided him with a career he loves.

His qualifications include:

  • Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII)
  • Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)

His deep knowledge of the Guimbal Cabri G2 and turbine aircraft like the Bell 206B JetRanger ensures that our students are evaluated by someone who understands the nuances of modern helicopter technology.

Why Location and Efficiency Matter

Based at Finney Field (T47) in Howe, Texas, TruFlight Academy is a women-owned and veteran-owned school dedicated to professional excellence. We know that many of our students are pursuing careers in EMS, law enforcement, or utility flying. Every month spent waiting for a checkride is a month of lost earning potential.

Student and instructor smiling and holding certificate in front of a helicopter

By providing a dedicated DPE and on-site housing for those traveling from across North Texas or out of state, we provide a streamlined, professional environment where you can focus on one thing: earning your wings.

Ready to Finish Your Rating?

Whether you are starting your Private Pilot journey or looking to add an Instrument or Commercial rating, TruFlight Academy is the region’s trusted choice for efficient, high-quality training.

Student and instructor smiling and holding certificate in front of a helicopter

Don’t let a scheduling backlog stall your dreams. Contact TruFlight Academy today to learn more about our programs and how our dedicated DPE services can fast-track your aviation career.


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