Charles A Lilly

Charles "Chuck" Lilly is a highly experienced FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and co-founder of SkyTrain Aviation, based in Pleasant View, Tennessee. With decades of experience and thousands of flight hours, Lilly’s career spans military helicopters, corporate jets, and commercial airlines. He is a veteran who previously served with the Nashville Metro Police Department, a background that underscores his disciplined approach to aviation. Holding an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and Gold Seal CFI credentials, he is a primary resource for pilot certifications within the Nashville Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) region.

Lilly is particularly noted for his safety-oriented mindset, a trait reinforced by his successful execution of an emergency landing following an engine failure in 2021. His ability to land safely with zero injuries under extreme pressure highlights the practical risk management he evaluates during checkrides. Specializing in Private, Commercial, and Instrument ratings, as well as tailwheel transitions, Lilly is respected for his fair yet rigorous examination style. He remains a dedicated mentor to the Tennessee pilot community, focusing on building high-level proficiency and situational awareness in every student and applicant.