Gleim Aviation, an aviation education provider, presented its new Digital Pilot Examiner (DPE) checkride prep tool at the SUN ‘n FUN aerospace expo’s Innovation Preview on March 31. Gleim DPE utilizes AI-powered conversation software to simulate the oral exam and provide accurate feedback.
Any given checkride has two primary parts: an oral exam and a flight exam. Though the flying itself is obviously a major part of a checkride, students can practice steep turns and shoot approaches until they’re muscle memory. The oral portion of the exam, however, can be deceptively complex. It’s a long, thorough discussion designed to pull out weak points in student knowledge.
“In speaking with numerous Certified Flight Instructors, it became clear that most learners who fail their checkride do so during the oral exam,” stated Lorie Gleim, CEO of Gleim Aviation. “As a mission-driven company committed to pilot success, we felt a strong responsibility to address this issue and create a product that tests knowledge orally like happens during the exam."
This obstacle is what Gleim aimed to address with its Call Simulator-powered Gleim DPE. The tool allows students to speak with a Digital Pilot Examiner (DPE), named Otto, that serves as an instructor to ask checkride-style questions and provide targeted feedback.
“It’s amazing in its ability to simulate a real-life oral examination,” remarked Vicky Benzing, a seasoned pilot and aerobatic performer. “This tool will be a total game-changer for anyone preparing for a checkride.”
The Gleim DPE was one of several interesting inventions to make its mark at the SUN n’ FUN Innovation Preview. It was formally unveiled at the Lakeland, Florida airshow a day later and remains on display in Hangar C, Booth 40 for visitors to gawk at or test fly. The tool is also available to buy or demo through the Gleim Aviation website.
“With the Gleim DPE, we’re setting a new standard for pilot training,” Gleim continued.
