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Richard "Rick" Rawlings is a distinguished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Kingwood, Texas, primarily serving the Houston aviation community. A seasoned professional with a deep-rooted history in aviation, Rawlings transitioned into his role as an evaluator following a prolific career as a Captain for United Airlines. During his tenure with the airline, he commanded Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft, accumulating thousands of flight hours in high-stakes commercial environments. His transition to the DPE role has allowed him to apply this vast experience to the certification of new pilots across various ratings.
Rawlings is highly regarded for his specialization in Private, Commercial, and Instrument practical tests. He is known for a checkride style that is both "thought-provoking" and educational, prioritizing the practical application of aeronautical decision-making over mere rote memorization. Beyond conducting exams, he is a frequent contributor to the FAASTeam, where he leads safety seminars on pilot privileges and regulatory compliance. Maintaining a clean safety record throughout his extensive career, Rawlings remains dedicated to fostering a culture of safety and proficiency within the Texas flight training landscape.