Joseph Samuel Sottile

Joseph Samuel Sottile is a veteran Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Scottsdale, Arizona, operating under the Scottsdale Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). With decades of experience in the cockpit, Sottile has established himself as a cornerstone of the Phoenix-area aviation community. He is authorized to conduct practical tests across a broad spectrum of certifications, including Private, Instrument, Commercial, Airline Transport Pilot (ATP), and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Initial examinations. His career is characterized by a deep-seated commitment to the Airman Certification Standards (ACS), ensuring that every pilot he evaluates meets the rigorous safety and proficiency requirements mandated by the FAA.

Before his appointment as an examiner, Sottile built an extensive professional background as a high-time flight instructor and commercial pilot. He is widely recognized for his thorough approach to aircraft documentation and logbook compliance, reflecting a safety mindset that prioritizes airworthiness and administrative precision. Candidates often note his fair but exacting evaluation style, which emphasizes situational awareness and risk management. As a mentor and examiner, Sottile’s influence extends beyond the checkride, as he consistently advocates for the highest level of professionalism and technical accuracy among aspiring aviators in the Southwest region.