Keith Ham

Keith Ham is a distinguished Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and aviation leader based in Kasilof, Alaska, with more than 30 years of experience in the state’s unique flight environment. His extensive background in Alaska aviation includes serving as a line pilot for Bear Lake Air Service and a flight instructor for the Civil Air Patrol. Notably, he spent fifteen years at Grant Aviation as a Part 135 Check Airman, Flight Instructor, and Lead Pilot at the Bethel Base. He currently serves as the Chief Pilot for Kenai Aviation and the Chief Instructor for the Kenai Aviation Training Academy, where he manages training programs and pilot records.

With over 18,000 total flight hours, Keith holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with Multi-Engine Land and Single-Engine Sea ratings. His instructional credentials include CFII and MEI certifications, bolstered by over 3,000 hours of dual instruction given. Before transitioning to a full-time aviation career, he earned an Associate’s Degree in Forestry from the University of New Hampshire in the mid-1980s, a background that fostered his deep connection to the Alaskan wilderness and remote operations.

Keith’s expertise spans a wide range of aircraft, from the Cessna 185 and 206 to the Norseman and various multi-engine platforms. His professional safety mindset is informed by 25 years of commercial Part 135 operations, during which he focused on rigorous checking and training standards. As a DPE, he is committed to upholding the highest certification standards on the Kenai Peninsula, utilizing his decades of experience to mentor and evaluate the next generation of professional and recreational pilots.