Elliot Neal Brandt

Elliot Neal Brandt, commonly referred to as Neal Brandt, is a highly regarded Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based at the Ainsworth Municipal Airport (ANW) in Nebraska. With an aviation career rooted in decades of professional flight and instruction, Brandt has become a staple of the Midwestern pilot training ecosystem. Although he frequently spends time in Georgia, his presence in Ainsworth is characterized by a dedication to regional pilot development. He is widely praised within the pilot community for his fair, honest, and professional evaluation style, creating a testing environment where candidates can demonstrate their proficiency while being held to the highest standards of airmanship.

A holder of an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and an experienced Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), Brandt has accumulated thousands of flight hours in diverse aircraft and challenging environments. His examination authority is extensive, covering Private, Commercial, Instrument, and Multi-engine ratings, as well as the rigorous initial Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificates. Brandt maintains an exemplary safety record and emphasizes a meticulous safety mindset during his evaluations, focusing heavily on critical decision-making and regulatory compliance. His transition from high-level professional flight to the role of a DPE reflects a lifelong commitment to ensuring that the next generation of aviators meets the FAA’s stringent safety and proficiency requirements.