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Tristan Gibbs is a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and Airline Transport Pilot based in Chandler, Arizona, with a distinguished career in both civilian and public-use aviation. With thousands of flight hours, Gibbs has served as a pilot for CalFire, operating the North American OV-10 Bronco in demanding aerial firefighting environments. This background in high-performance, mission-critical flight operations has shaped his professional focus on technical precision and aeronautical decision-making. He is widely recognized in the Phoenix Valley for his expertise in a broad range of aircraft, from light trainers to complex platforms.
As a highly qualified instructor and examiner, Gibbs holds CFI, CFII, and MEI ratings, specializing in Private, Commercial, and Instrument practical tests. He is actively involved in the Arizona aviation community, contributing his time to local scholarship committees and volunteer events such as Skykids. Maintaining an exemplary safety record throughout his career, Gibbs is known for a thorough yet fair evaluation style that emphasizes a foundational safety mindset. His leadership in the region reflects a dedication to elevating training standards and mentoring the next generation of professional pilots in the Southwest.