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Erik Petschauer is an accomplished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and aviation professional operating out of Cherry Ridge Airport (N30) in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate along with CFI and CFII ratings, reflecting a high level of technical proficiency and instructional expertise. Petschauer has logged over 2,100 flight hours, including more than 1,000 hours of dual instruction given. His career is marked by a transition from a background in electrical engineering to professional aviation, where he has served as a Part 121 regional carrier pilot and a dedicated mentor to aspiring aviators in the Northeast.
Beyond his work as an examiner, Petschauer is deeply involved in the aviation safety community as an FAASTeam Representative. He frequently conducts educational seminars on critical topics such as engine airworthiness and pre-ignition risks, drawing on his B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Penn State University. During his time at Penn State, he also served as the president of the university's soaring club, establishing a lifelong foundation in energy management and precision flying. Today, he is widely respected for his thorough examination style, prioritizing risk management and a comprehensive understanding of aircraft systems to ensure the next generation of pilots meets the highest safety standards.