Lisa Buswell Dahl

Lisa Buswell Dahl is a distinguished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based at McNary Field in Salem, Oregon, serving the Portland Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). Aviation is a central part of her heritage; she is the daughter of the late Myron "Buz" Buswell, a legendary Oregon aviator and Hall of Fame inductee. This lifelong immersion in the aviation community has shaped her professional philosophy, which prioritizes meticulous safety, technical discipline, and the preservation of flight standards. Before becoming an examiner, Dahl spent years running a flight school and charter operation, gaining deep operational experience that informs her practical approach to testing.

With thousands of flight hours, Dahl holds high-level certifications including Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) and Commercial privileges for both single and multi-engine aircraft. As a veteran Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII, MEI), she is widely recognized for her expertise in scenario-based Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM) and thorough systems knowledge. Her checkrides are known for being "by the book," reflecting a safety-first mindset that ensures candidates are fully prepared for real-world flying. She specializes in a broad range of certifications, from Private Pilot through Flight Instructor renewals, and remains a pillar of the Pacific Northwest aviation community.