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Harrison McNaughton is a highly experienced FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Ames, Iowa, serving the Des Moines FSDO region. His professional aviation journey began at Iowa Lakes Community College, leading to significant roles at Great Lakes Airlines, Reno Air, and Airborne Express. Following the events of 9/11, McNaughton transitioned to active duty with the Iowa Army National Guard, where he completed overseas tours in Kosovo and Iraq, eventually retiring with 26 years of distinguished military service.
Between 2010 and 2015, McNaughton served as an FAA General Aviation Safety Inspector in Des Moines before returning to United Airlines to fly Boeing 737, 757, and 767 aircraft on international routes. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with numerous type ratings, including the DC-8, DC-9, and MD-80. Now operating McNaughton Aviation, he specializes in practical tests for Private, Commercial, and Multi-Engine ratings, as well as Flight Instructor certifications. His extensive background as both a former federal safety inspector and a retired airline captain allows him to provide evaluations that prioritize a safety-first mindset while adhering strictly to Airman Certification Standards.