Certificates
Aircraft Categories
Christopher Dale Bleakney is a distinguished figure in the Wichita, Kansas aviation community, where he serves as a seasoned FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and mentor. With a career deeply rooted in the "Air Capital of the World," Bleakney previously served as a veteran test pilot for the Cessna Aircraft Company. Holding an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate alongside comprehensive instructor ratings (CFI, CFII, MEI), he has accumulated thousands of flight hours across a diverse range of aircraft, from single-engine trainers to advanced experimental jets. His tenure as a test pilot provided him with a profound depth of knowledge regarding aircraft systems and aerodynamics that few in the industry possess.
As a DPE, Bleakney is recognized for a fair yet rigorous examination style that emphasizes the mastery of Airman Certification Standards (ACS). His safety-first mindset is heavily informed by his high-stakes flight testing background, including a notable incident during an experimental Cessna test flight that required a ballistic parachute recovery. This first-hand experience with emergency procedures underscores his commitment to technical proficiency and pilot preparedness. Today, he is highly regarded throughout the Kansas flight training circuit for his ability to translate complex engineering data into practical safety lessons for the next generation of private and commercial pilots.