Brandon Kuhn DPE Checkride Gouges

Examiner Style

Kuhn is consistently described as flexible, fair, and genuinely smart. He keeps things professional but relaxed — pilots say it feels like a good time rather than an interrogation. He won't waste your time drilling deep into topics unnecessarily, and he won't blow up your ride over a single isolated mistake. He can tell the difference between a momentary slip and someone who's unprepared. As an active 737 captain at United, his schedule is limited, but pilots consider him well worth the wait.

What to Expect

Kuhn is heavily scenario-driven. Nearly everything — oral and flight — flows from the planned mission rather than random topic-hopping. Expect him to focus on:

• Your thought process and PIC decision-making, not just textbook answers
• Thorough review of your planning documents — flight plan, navlog, weight & balance, and performance numbers
• A full flight briefing including weather and diversion planning
• Airspace knowledge and the situational awareness that goes with it

The flight portion mirrors what was briefed on the ground. He values efficiency and professionalism throughout.

What Surprised Pilots

Pilots noted that Kuhn will press you on why you chose an answer — not just whether it's correct. He also picks apart planning documents more than some expect. Small imperfections on the flight didn't end the ride, but read the full gouges for specifics on where tolerances got tight.