John Hansford Kinard

John Hansford Kinard is a highly specialized FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, serving the Nashville Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). With a career deeply rooted in military and civilian rotorcraft operations, Kinard has become a cornerstone of the helicopter aviation community in Middle Tennessee. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and is a Gold Seal Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII) with a specific focus on helicopter flight training. His professional journey is marked by thousands of flight hours, much of which was accumulated through rigorous service in U.S. Army Aviation, where he honed his skills in complex tactical environments before transitioning to civilian roles.

As a DPE, Kinard is recognized for his commitment to aviation safety and his meticulous approach to the Airman Certification Standards (ACS). He specializes in conducting checkrides for Private, Commercial, Instrument, and Flight Instructor certificates specifically for rotorcraft. Throughout his extensive career, he has maintained an exemplary safety record, with no notable accidents or incidents, a testament to his disciplined mindset and adherence to regulatory standards. Kinard’s dual background as a veteran aviator and a seasoned educator allows him to provide fair, thorough evaluations that ensure the next generation of helicopter pilots meets the highest levels of proficiency and operational safety.