Michael Duane Rath

Michael Duane Rath is a highly respected aviation professional and FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) operating out of Spearfish, South Dakota. With a career deeply rooted in the Black Hills region, Rath has been a vital contributor to local aviation infrastructure, notably serving as the Chairman and President of the Black Hills Airport Board at Clyde Ice Field. His leadership was instrumental during the airport’s transition to city control, and he has continued to be a leading voice on the Black Hills Airport Task Force, focusing on regional safety and infrastructure development.

With thousands of hours of flight experience, Rath holds advanced FAA certifications that allow him to conduct practical exams for Private, Commercial, and Instrument pilot candidates in single-engine aircraft. Known for his meticulous approach to the checkride process, he maintains an exemplary safety record, consistently emphasizing risk management and pilot proficiency to his applicants. In addition to his technical aviation expertise, Rath has been active in Spearfish civic life and airport governance, bringing a professional background in management to his roles. His specialization in airman certification and his commitment to the local flying community have made him a cornerstone of the pilot training pipeline in western South Dakota.