Mark Schmitt

Mark Schmitt is a veteran aviator and FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Rockford, Michigan. With over 40 years of flight instruction experience, Schmitt has become a cornerstone of the West Michigan aviation community. He is the owner and chief flight instructor of Sparta Aviation Services at Paul C. Miller-Sparta Airport (8D4), where he has spent more than 15 years guiding pilots through their certification journeys. His examiner authority includes Private, Commercial, and Instrument ratings for both Single-Engine Land and Sea aircraft, reflecting a versatile mastery of various flight environments.

Outside of his instructional and examiner duties, Schmitt brings a sophisticated level of professional expertise as a current Captain for American Airlines, where he operates the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. His multifaceted background also includes certification as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic. This technical proficiency provides him with an intricate understanding of aircraft systems, which deeply informs his safety-first approach to checkrides and instruction. Throughout his long career, which includes thousands of hours in heavy transport and general aviation aircraft, Schmitt has maintained an exemplary safety record, making him a highly respected figure for candidates in the Grand Rapids region.