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David Olcott Koebel is a highly distinguished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Vancouver, Washington, with a deep-rooted history in the Pacific Northwest aviation community. Originally relocating from Ohio to the Columbia River Gorge for windsurfing, a discovery flight transitioned his passion from the river to the sky. Over a career spanning more than twenty years, Koebel has accumulated over 9,000 flight hours, including an impressive 7,000 hours of dual instruction given. Prior to his appointment as an examiner, he served as a lead instructor for Classic Wings Aero Services and conducted specialized aerial testing for unmanned aerial vehicle sensor systems.
In his current capacity as a DPE, Koebel is widely recognized for his meticulous evaluation style and commitment to safety-focused certification. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and a Gold Seal Flight Instructor rating, specializing in Private, Commercial, and Instrument practical tests. His philosophy emphasizes the critical importance of risk management and thorough logbook documentation, ensuring that applicants are prepared for real-world operational challenges. By integrating a safety-first mindset into the checkride process, Koebel continues to play a vital role in upholding the high standards of aviation throughout the region.