by Adam Shimmens
PilExOS, A Modern Solution to Improving Examiner Operations and Reducing Checkride Wait Times.
Designated Pilot Examiners (DPE), are vital to ensuring pilots are being trained to meet FAA standards and have the abilities to safely execute a flight as a licensed pilot. Their operational efficiency directly impacts the rate at which applicants can train. If applicants are needing to wait for weeks or even months to get a Checkride, then this slows their training, which ultimately leads to higher costs and career delays, creating a ripple effect across all operators involved. One key strategy that can significantly enhance efficiency and streamline operations is adopting a centralized scheduling approach within the DPE community. PilExOS was purpose built to tackle these issues and many more.
1 | Better Manage Applicant Volume
With the proper geographical safeguards, calendar blocks, and permissions in place, software serves to protect an Examiner’s time and create less manual work tracking high volumes of inbound communications from Applicants and schools.The efficiency gains for each Examiner within a centralized system ensures broader market gains from Applicants and Schools.
2 | Enable Self-Service
A centralized software solution simplifies the process for applicants, instructors, and flight schools to find available Examiners within a geographic region. Within a web portal, applicants and schools can easily view available Examiners, where they’re located, checkride costs, what information and documents are required, and then complete their booking without ever having to talk to an Examiner. This streamlines communication and reduces the time to book a Checkride. Examiners gain hours of time back each month by letting automation handle their Administrative tasks.
3 | Enhanced Communication
Effective communication is crucial for Examiners to ensure the Applicant has met the necessary requirements to accept the Checkride. A Centralized system facilitates seamless communication and coordination by consolidating all necessary information and documentation in one place. Automated notifications for any exam changes keep everyone informed and aligned, especially given the likelihood of weather related delays requiring date and/or location changes. Auto-reminders also help reduce last minute cancellations.
4 | Better Applicant Experience
When technology and automation run seamlessly, the administrative burden is reduced. This enhances transparency and frees up Examiners and Applicants time to better focus on more important tasks, like preparing for the actual Checkride. With the integration of ACS codes lookup, all parties involved can quickly ensure any missed codes from the written exam are added to both the booking and the Examiners Plan of Action.
5 | Eliminates Double-Bookings
Centralized systems, with the proper safeguards in place, prevent applicants from booking more than one Examiner at a time per exam type, which drastically reduces the wasted opportunities for unsuspecting Examiners, and reduces Checkride backlog.