Bruce Edward Allen DPE Checkride Gouges

As of this writing, only one report is on file for Bruce Allen, from a private pilot applicant who flew a 172. He starts warm, greeting the applicant, offering food or drink, then filling out IACRA together. Once seated, he asked the applicant to prove the airplane was airworthy. That meant flipping to the most recent stickers in the airframe, engine, and prop logbooks. The applicant showed the dates, tach times, and the IA signature, since they do annuals every 100 hours.

He wanted the transponder and pitot static checks shown too. He asked how long those stay valid, which is 24 calendar months. The applicant also pointed out the AD logs in the back of the book, and he nodded. He likes country music and plays it during the oral, so pick that if he offers.

His first question covered the information needed to file a VFR flight plan. The applicant had missed two written questions on that topic, which likely explains the timing. He also asked what documents you need on you and in the plane during a ramp check. Currency requirements came up, along with who can give a flight review. He seemed pleased to learn a DPE can do one.

He asked about first class medical privileges for a 35 year old pilot. He then had the applicant find two different FARs, one being preventative maintenance. He did not want the rule read aloud, just proof the applicant could find it. A tabbed paper FAR/AIM impressed him, since he noted many younger pilots rely on the app search.

Inoperative equipment came up through 91.205, the KOEL, and the TCDS. He appreciated that the applicant had the KOEL and TCDS printed in a binder. The applicant also noted they had no MEL or STC.