Matthew David Harlin

Matthew David Harlin is a distinguished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) serving the Southern California aviation community, particularly in the Santa Ana and Long Beach regions. With a career rooted in professional flight operations, Matthew also serves as an active airline pilot, bringing a wealth of real-world experience to his role as a regulatory examiner. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and has accumulated thousands of flight hours through years of commercial service and flight instruction. His background in the airline industry provides him with a unique perspective on standardized procedures and professional safety protocols, which he meticulously integrates into his evaluations of local aviators.

Specializing in Private, Instrument, and Commercial Pilot certifications, Matthew is known among candidates for his thorough yet fair examination style. He is particularly recognized for his emphasis on weather theory and risk management, often challenging students to demonstrate a deep understanding of atmospheric conditions and critical decision-making. Operating frequently out of John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Long Beach Airport (LGB), he has maintained an exemplary safety record throughout his career. Matthew’s dual experience as a high-level commercial pilot and a DPE ensures that every candidate he certifies meets the rigorous safety standards required for the National Airspace System.