John Scott Saunders

John Scott Saunders, widely known in the aviation community as Scott Saunders, is a highly regarded Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and Airline Transport Pilot based in Cahokia, Illinois. Operating primarily out of the St. Louis Downtown Airport (KCPS), Saunders has dedicated decades to the advancement of aviation safety and pilot certification. He holds a comprehensive suite of FAA credentials, including an ATP certificate and Multi-Engine Flight Instructor (MEI) ratings. Beyond his role as an examiner, he serves as an FAASTeam Lead Representative, where he leverages his extensive background in Safety Management Systems (SMS) and international flight operations to mentor pilots throughout the Midwest.

In his capacity as a DPE, Saunders is recognized for his fair yet rigorous evaluation process, strictly adhering to the FAA’s Airman Certification Standards (ACS). His expertise covers a wide range of practical tests, from Private and Commercial certificates to specialized Instrument and Flight Instructor ratings. He is frequently sought after by students from programs such as Saint Louis University’s Parks College for his professional temperament and "no surprises" approach to checkrides. Throughout his career, Saunders has maintained an exemplary safety record, emphasizing a mindset of disciplined risk management and precise decision-making in every evaluation.