Frank Brooks Black

Frank Brooks Black, professionally known as Brooks Black, is a veteran FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Pompano Beach, Florida. Since beginning his aviation journey in 1967, he has accumulated over 18,000 flight hours and has served as an examiner since 1991. His extensive credentials include certifications as a flight and ground instructor and an airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanic. Black holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toledo, providing a rigorous technical foundation for his multi-decade career in the cockpit.

Black’s professional background is notably diverse, featuring a tenure as a pilot for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and certification as an Aircraft Accident Investigator from the University of Southern California. This deep expertise in safety and investigation is central to his methodology as an examiner and his frequent contributions as a speaker for FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) seminars. He is also a USCG Captain, certified to operate vessels up to 100 tons.

In addition to his field work, Black is the author of "Does That Mean I Fail?: A Humorous Look At Pilot Checkrides," a book that highlights his reputation for being fair, thorough, and possessing a sharp sense of humor. His multifaceted experience across law enforcement aviation, accident investigation, and engineering has made him one of the most respected figures in the South Florida flight training community.