Benjamin James Atnip

Benjamin James Atnip is a distinguished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and NAFI Master Flight Instructor based in Cody, Wyoming. With an aviation career spanning over two decades, Atnip’s journey began with a childhood fascination that led to him earning his private pilot license at age nineteen. He currently holds an Airline Transport Pilot certificate with type ratings in the Airbus A320 and Citation 525. Over his extensive career, he has logged more than 13,000 total flight hours, including over 5,000 hours of dual instruction, and currently conducts practical exams for ratings ranging from Private Pilot to ATP under the Denver FSDO.

Beyond his work as an examiner, Atnip has a robust background in professional flight operations, including roles as a Part 135 charter pilot performing medevac and air attack missions. He formerly served as the Director of Flight Operations for Choice Aviation and founded a collegiate-affiliated flight school in 2007. A Gold Seal Instructor and Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot (CSIP), he specializes in high-altitude mountain flying, tailwheel transitions, and turboprop training. Through Atnip Aviation, he maintains a steadfast commitment to safety and excellence, leveraging his experience in complex operating environments to mentor the next generation of aviators.