Fired By The FAA!

Join Tres and I on this short documentary about the events that led up to the termination of a Senior Designated Pilot Examiner in the aviation community, what it caused, and what we as aviators hope to do about it. #pilotsforken #aviation #flying #floatplane #taildragger #generalaviation #aviator #avgeek #aviationlovers #pilot #faa #fired
Join us on Facebook as we share ideas and updates on the mission!
/ pilotsforken

[@flyer299]

If the goal of the FAA is to create a strong safety culture, this action has taken us many giant steps backwards. In all of my public and private interactions with Ken, there is no better person to be our safety cheerleader. This man exudes professionalism and safety with every breath he takes. I can see how the FAA would have wanted that specific situation handled slightly differently, but Ken did not do anything wrong and a simple private conversation from the FAA to Ken would have been all that was needed. Perhaps Ken needs to post a public video simply stating, “to clarify, water skiing is dangerous and is never recommended”. But in today’s world, keeping quiet is always the path of least resistance, but does not create a safer culture. This is a major step backwards for safety. How many other comments about safety, that could save my life one day, will now go unsaid?

[@AllAmericanAviation]

I whole heartedly agree. Thanks for the support Ken!

[@zackbloom]

It is 100% true that the word on the street in Texas was that Ken’s checkrides are the hardest. I had multiple people tell me to skip him and take rides with people who were easier. I instead chose Ken because I wanted someone tough who would challenge me, and the FAA took that option away from me a few weeks before our scheduled ride. I’m not sure what goal they think they are fulfilling, but it seems off the mark.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Ken is a solid professional. One of the best I know. I consider myself a professional but in the apprenticeship of his guidance I feel like an amateur.

[@alfonsocarlos285]

Not sure if anyone gives a damn but if you are bored like me during the covid times then you can watch all the latest movies and series on instaflixxer. Been binge watching with my gf recently =)

[@holdenbraylen763]

@Alfonso Carlos yea, have been watching on instaflixxer for since november myself :D

[@aciagriculturalconstructio2264]

The FAA deserves a lot of thanks from all of general aviation. Because of them most GA aircraft still use carburetors and magnetos. That same technology that the automotive world replaced 50 years ago is still in use in GA. You couldn't sell a car today if it still ran on magnetos and carburetors. They got replaced because someone figured out a better product. There is no reason why an airplane should cost more than a car other than the FAA has regulated them so poorly. Thank goodness for Experimental!

[@rescue270]

I still like carburetors and magnetos. They are simple, tried and proven appliances. The few electronic systems I have seen on aircraft have been more trouble than mags and carburetors or mechanical injection. The heat and vibration encountered in an aircraft cause a lot more stress than in a car. A car cruises along with the engine at about 12% power most of the time whereas aircraft have to be pulling 50 or 60% power all the time just to stay aloft. Most electronic systems require a source of electrical power which also then require a backup battery in case the airframe electrical system fails. The batteries are good for about 1/2 an hour. That right there does it for me. Mags and carburetors will keep the engine running until it runs out of gas even if the battery and alternator fall out of the airplane and that's why they have stayed in use for all this time. They can also be field-repaired very easily. People tend to overlook the fact that there are no tow trucks for airplanes. You cannot compare cars to airplanes. Reliability needs to be the foremost concern- not efficiency. I don't care if it's 500 year old technology. If it works, use it. Most of these new things are simply a fancy way of doing pretty what's always been done since the beginning. Like walking all the way around the block to visit your neighbor.

[@daringinther888]

@@rescue270 Disagree - fixed timing mags and carbs? Are the cars that were built in the 1950s more reliable than the cars built in 2000? Because that's the technology we're stuck in. I do get (and agree) with your comments on power output, but the timing and intake systems are not stressed with power production. Technology exists to take a mixture knob off the plate of pilots, make things much more efficient, and make things a lot easier - decreasing a pilots load is a safety mechanism.

[@aciagriculturalconstructio2264]

I get all the arguments of easier to work on power settings etc... My point is that modern fuel injection and electronic ignition just work better and dont have to be worked on. As for power settings i run my tractors at full power with some pretty interesting loads and vibrations and all the electronics just seem to keep working. My classic John Deer M has a constant problem with the carburetor and magneto. I love that tractor and its easy to work on but that magneto looks a lot like the one in my plane. Im all about the classics don't get me wrong. Just a personal preference if i could have fuel injection and electronic ignition thats where i would go.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@amsharpe]

Great job Jeremy and Tres!

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks Andy!

[@lisaleedavidson]

Thanks for standing up for your mentor. I agree totally with your position and believe the FAA owes him an apology and reinstatement.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

I had not choice but to. I know his character. I also know how hard it was to get a student through his checkrides. Very fair, very thorough, but tough. Exactly the way we want it.

[@bgpwrddy]

FAA Mission Statement: "We're Not Happy Until You're Not Happy."

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Most of the FAA is really good.

[@bgpwrddy]

@@AllAmericanAviation I know...just a joke...

[@LeviNoguess]

Great video and discussion about a disturbing topic. Knowing Ken, I absolutely can not believe that this happened. Wow!

[@AllAmericanAviation]

It's quite a story.

[@TANGLEUSA]

I'm SHOCKED! I was on this call, but had left after the instruction portion of the class and prior to what was clearly an "off the record" Q&A. I LOVE KEN, and I lit up when I saw he was on the call. I will do whatever it takes to help get Ken reinstated. THIS situation stinks to sky high heaven, and it makes you wonder; how many other pilots have been WRONGED by the FAA??

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@gregorybentley5707]

What actions have you taken since your comment to help get Kent reinstated?

[@PoasLodge]

People aren’t dying from water skiing tires. People are dying from inadvertent IMC, failure to control airspeed, coordination during critical phases of flight, and bad emergency procedure execution. Actual critical aspects of flying. Not playing on sunny days at a lake or gravel bar. And all they did is take away someone who’s passion was to ensure those critical phases of flight are prepared for. They degraded the quality of the “flock” so to speak. Someone else needs to be fired.

[@xplanematt]

You nailed it. DPEs are hard to come by. Valuable lessons are gleaned from a good checkride with a good DPE. And we need experienced CFIs sharing their knowledge, especially since so many people apparently are under-trained in the REAL problem areas, including as those you mentioned. And for all the bad rap water skiing gets, it's really NOT all that dangerous in the first place. Sure, there's a fair chance that a poorly executed ski run will end you up on your back in the water. While that's not a particularly good situation, it usually does not end in death (or even serious injury).

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@Dawn_Breaker]

Absolutely disgusting behavior by the San Antonio FSDO and horrible the FAA at large has not done anything about it.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@wootle]

I came upon this video completely by accident and watched the whole thing. This is the most ridiculous thing the FAA has done, deprive the community of a skilled DPE.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

They have indeed. We're still fighting the issue and we shall see how it all unfolds.

[@wootle]

@@AllAmericanAviation could organizations like AOPA, EAA etc help?

[@stevebbush]

I’d personally like to see an investigation into this action. Seems like an illegitimate enforcement which is completely out of sorts from my interaction with our FSDO. Ken’s a fantastic instructor, pilot, DPE and person.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

1,000% agreed.

[@f2air]

Tres's choice of words from 12:48 is fantastic, you can't say it any better. I hope the FAA are watching this too and reinstate Ken.

[@warren5699]

Why are you ignoring what was said from 9:45 to 10:26?

[@f2air]

@@warren5699 Please elaborate...what's your point?

[@warren5699]

@@f2air That's where is was said 'We skied the tires: it was awesome. You know how you do that - in someone else's airplane'. What's your take on those comments?

[@f2air]

​@@warren5699 Well I don't have any issue with those comments if that's what you are wondering. It was an anecdote. I presume some took issue with it and perhaps also the lack of response by Ken immediately afterward. Maybe he felt that he had already dealt with the matter. In the part of the video that I had originally referred to, Tres very eloquently, in my opinion, describes Ken's character and the language he used to get his point across. He said that Ken did reprimand him in private after the waterski event. The part of the video that I refer to adds context to those comments that you refer to, that's why I didn't understand your question. What's your take?

[@warren5699]

@@f2air My take was disbelief that those flippant remarks were made in a safety meeting and then them saying they couldn't see anything wrong with the presentation. I realize Ken is very well liked and maybe that contributes to not fully appreciating the impact of what was said. I think part of your reply was cut off. Saw your entire comment - cuts off depending on where I click.

[@draginspect]

Someone wanted him out, possibly open a space for another DPE. This was a retaliation for some reason.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@richdavidson8554]

This is actually quite common.

[@charlesrogers5018]

I got out of G.A. because of the FAA in my area, that was 30 years ago. I love aviation, but was on their radar, so I just quit. I feel contacting a Congressman would be in order, maybe have an investigation into their reasoning. Maybe someone in the FAA needs to go. Like the Legislators, the FAA works for us, it's our Government.

[@mikercflyer7383]

Thats the problem they are part of the government.

[@charlesrogers5018]

@@mikercflyer7383 They are the Government, they are here to help. LOL Actions like this are effecting both the local economy, as well as the future of G.A.

[@VoluntaryPlanet]

The government does not work for you.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how all of this pans out.

[@komcaloon5609]

Any chance of hosting the official that took the action on Ken for an interview? Would be interesting to hear their side of it. It is really puzzling as it stands. I think if they were unwilling to interview or comment than that would confirm suspicions that this was a purely political move. Also, it’d be nice to hear how that action was going to foster a good relationship between GA community and FAA from their perspective. I doubt they would bite.on the opportunity.

[@TresClinton]

It’s a great idea but I bet they would never agree to it.

[@treeamigo]

@@TresClinton That is a shame because true accountability is a 2 way street.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@rubenmoreno4520]

I'm impressed by this video & would like to hear what finally happened. I'm conforming an internal FAA case due to an emergency revocation to our 45 years old prestige clean never committed a violation FAA 145 Repair Station Certificate which took us by surprise while working. We already have an attorney defending us. But would like to learn about how is it that the faa does not comply with the regulatory philosophy

[@AllAmericanAviation]

It's still being worked!

[@g6rcteam81]

Wow that was crazy . I would love to hear more about the FAA side of things . Besides the already stated . Any other issues known about. Other comments seemed to suggest retaliation for something or wanted his job . I am working to get my cfi . Kinda makes me think I may not want to bother.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@daringinther888]

If you're interested in supporting Ken you can sign a petition, email: Pilots For Ken . Hopefully AOPA is looking at this also. My understanding is that Ken can appeal if he feels that the "process" for firing him was not followed, but as the FAA followed procedure, the chance of that appeal being valid is slim. Apparently you cannot appeal the "opinion" portion of this decision. Ken has obviously invested a lifetime in GA and this is a major blow to that. To me, it appears all too subjective and very low bar to end that appointment - which is in no way a fair, ethical, or transparent process.

[@johnfife3062]

True. We may not be able to appeal an opinion, but we can certainly cast that opinion in the true light by which is seen -- one that is not conducive to positive relations with the GA community. It is an unfortunate judgment call that reflects poorly on the region's FAA administration.

[@johnfife3062]

Done!

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks

[@astudentpilotlife]

I know Ken as my DPE for my private pilot at California Aeronautical University. Even though he was very hard with his exam, he is very good at what he do and very fair with this system. On the personal level, he is a very nice and funny person to talk too and to gain extra skill from him. I think this firing is very unfair to Ken as he have over 12,000 flight hour and have been with us pilot community for so long. And by the FAA pointing out what he "SEEM" to be drinking wine will only make this even more public. If the FAA were to talk to him in private, all this issue and youtube video and articles about the wrong doing of the FAA won't be as public as it is now.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Exactly- thanks for your comment. We're still working it!

[@gswanson1519]

It would be extremely helpful to see the pleadings or letter of suspension. Rumors and embellishment sometimes obscure the actual facts. Once that document(s) are public, then the comments can come. Supporting a fellow aviator is critical for the aviation community. However, doing it properly and with a complete understanding of all the issues is important so as to not create a backlash.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how this all pans out.

[@mikebailey7071]

I usually stand up for the FAA but come on, we cannot loose the experienced DPE's and CFI's. What this really does is keeps good pilots who discuss different flying experiences (especially on KZbin) from ever being a CFI in the first place.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

I strongly agree with you. Great comment.

[@mauriceevans6546]

What I know from the FAA, they are another big government agency that has no clue about somethings concerning aviation. For example, if one of the biggest causes of general aviation is VFR flight into IMC, then why isn't the ability to get an IFR rating open to all certificates. Sure some additional training and endorsements could be required( for sport pilot and recreational pilots) but if the goal is safety and IFR makes safer pilots, this seems like a NO BRAINER!

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for the comment Maruice.

[@paulhendershott667]

what's the best best way to get the voices amplified for Ken and against the FAA's decision?

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Send me an email at [e-mail]

[@r3poman671]

Anyone know what a Master CFI is? That mention has intrigued me quite a bit.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for watching. Check out this website for that information. masterinstructors.org/

[@IslandSimPilot]

If that’s why they dropped this guy, well, wow. I agree with another poster, there must be some ulterior motive.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how this pans out.

[@amicidavinci]

To think that the FAA would fire Ken because of that video is just unbelievable. My gut feeling is that because of COVID the safety division people are working from home behind their computers and just looking for anything they can dig up because they aren't out there in the real world doing their job. I've personally been living on a 30 day "temporary airman certificate" that I have to renew every month, for the last 8 months, because I have to take a 409 ride and they aren't doing rides. My former DPE was investigated and they're making dozens of his ride pilots take a 409 checkride, while they're sitting at home behind their screens and pulling crap like this. I live one mile from the Burnet airport and when I went over there to see if Ken was around I heard about this and I just about lost it. It's a complete pile of bull crap.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@livingdonor7774]

Government over reach. Truly unbelievable and an injustice to this man.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@MrBulletman1970]

If you want something to be ran the most arrogant, idiotic and insufficient way, put a government agency in charge of it. In there mission to make aviation more safe, they have made it harder and more expensive to become a pilot. The amount of GA pilots is on the down turn. Most new pilots are in it more as a profession.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@gregorybentley5707]

Any quick sentence or two update on how this all turned out?

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Not yet

[@skidivr]

So did you waterski in Kens plane? If so , is it legal to do so? Flying low to the ground say in a low approach is one thing. Flying low over the water seems to be another kind of risk. What am I missing?

[@AllAmericanAviation]

No one was advocating water skiing

[@IrishDave]

I don’t even use bad language usually but this is some bull****. Who was the person on this zoom who even brought this forward? What a weasel.

[@johnmcguire66]

It's irrelevant though. There was nothing wrong with that call. No reason why it shouldn't have been made public. The whole point of chats like this is to get info out there from experienced people to the GA pilots. But this will keep people from doing it again though.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@dustyr.647]

This is so very sad, I have no dog in this fighting don’t know this man, but it sounds like someone has it out for him.

[@TANGLEUSA]

He is a very very good man. I've never heard anyone in the TEXAS flying community speak ill of him. He is HIGHLY recommended and is extremely knowledgable. Serious OLD SCHOOL.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@williamawbrey5935]

Every designee has a right and a method specified in the Orders to appeal terminating action by the FAA. Has Mr. Wittekiend filed that appeal and been heard?

[@AllAmericanAviation]

To be determined.

[@Coops777]

How would this FSDO feel if he were fired from his job tomorrow with no reasonable explanation or a right of reply? This is virtually what he's done to your CFI. This is a totally unacceptable situation where there appears to be no accountability. Aviation Authority staff can make mistake after mistake with little or no repercussion to themselves but drastically affect the lives of others. They cannot be voted out in elections, which makes them basically a law unto themselves apart from being directed by the government itself. I appreciate there are many fine and good people working in the FAA (and CASA here in Australia) but something is wrong when we, the public, whom the department serves, cannot influence the decision and law making within the organisations. Remote ID for rc model aircraft is an example of the FAA ignoring the suggestions and needs of those who took the time to write in. The revenue created by large drone delivery companies is worth pushing modelists aside and also reducing public safety by the proposed flying commercial UAVs in populated areas. I just hope the legal actions surrounding the handling of the 737 Max issues, will help create a new more accountable organisation which can be modeled on a global scale.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how this all pans out.

[@johntthomas7764]

Unfortunately DPE's serve at the will of the FAA and can be terminated for any cause , that said I believe that the FAA has very good people working for them and I hope this can be resolved.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

And that's what we hope to change and get policy improvements in place.

[@jamescaley9942]

Good luck. But I would expect FA from the FAA.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@ericcoleson7410]

Has anybody asked Ken if he still wants to serve as a DPE? As a former DPE myself, I can tell you there were times that the satisfaction of performing the service hardly seemed worth the hassle.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

He indeed would like to but what we are hoping to affect is some policy change to the entire process to make it less like what you just described.

[@ericcoleson7410]

To be fair, only one of the half dozen or so "principal" inspectors I reported to at various FAA FSDOs was less than entirely professional and helpful. In the one example, my pink-slipping him on a CFI reinstatement ride probably wasn't the optimum start to a friendly working relationship. At best, the satisfactions of the DPE job are offset by an administrative burden inherent in the bureaucracy. At worst, every flight test comes with a potential for conflict, especially with CFIs and applicants whose preparation for the test falls short of standards.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

@eric this has and had nothing to do with a checkride issue.

[@96TTViper]

@@AllAmericanAviation Gezzz, I loved the video you did, would love to help Ken but you need to lighten up. Eric (whom I do not know) was just explaining his comment. Don’t take this great video you did and turn folks off with your comments. Two times I have seen. We are all on the same side ! Thanks

[@johnfife3062]

If there's documentation of this administrative action, I would submit a FOIA request for the paperwork. And get a good aviation attorney: It might be argued that Ken's First Amendment rights have been violated in this way: The government can't abridge your right to speak freely...or, in Ken's case, to NOT speak. Silence is a form of speech. The 1A may be immaterial in this case, but that's what a good attorney is for. Show us a GoFundMe if it's needed to pay the attorney. In any case, get the paperwork and go from there.

[@TresClinton]

Working on this. Standby.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Coming soon.....

[@gwencrawford737]

Unbelievable...

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@SR-bh5jd]

Welcome to the FAA where our moto is, “ we’re not happy until you’re unhappy”.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@crawford323]

It seems, once again, an unelected bureaucrat has unchecked power and control over the life of another person.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how it pans out for sure.

[@donbrowncfi]

I guess I’ll play devils advocate I don’t necessarily agree with Ken losing his designation...but.. First off, your title is misleading. DPE’s aren’t FAA employees and can’t be fired. As a CFI you should know the damage that can be done by giving false information to the uninformed. Second, there is no process for “reinstating a DPE” it’s a privilege that can be revoked at any time for ANY reason by the FAA. DPE’s are independent contractors acting on behalf of the FAA, and the FAA has every right to end their relationship at any time for any reason. So you are spinning your wheels if you think you are going to force the Federal government to reinstate a contractor simply because you and some of your friends like him. And third, DPE’s are held to an extremely high standard, and they have a duty to respond, similar to FAA inspectors. You literally told a story where you admitted to a DPE that you violated regulations and acted in an unsafe manner, in his airplane no less. The DPE’s failure to respond gives the appearance that he has a less than impartial relationship with you. This is easily grounds for removing his designation. And finally, I’m sure there is probably more to this story, any number of issues can lead to a DPE losing their designation, like how many check rides they are doing a month, accidents or incidents, pass/failure rate, complaints from applicants, issues discovered during FAA inspector surveillance. I’m not saying Ken deserves to lose his designation, not at all. I’m just trying to point out a different view here as consideration. But the bottom line is the FAA does reserve the right to terminate that relationship at any time, for any reason.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Termination is the same thing as being fired. The FAA does indeed reserve the right to terminate for any reason and just because it's their right doesn't mean it's right. So therefore, the goal is change the policy.

[@deweywatts8456]

The "liquid" is discussed, but never identified, as if it was a mystery. If Ken didn't clarify it to the FAA, nothing said here did either. It's clear whatever Ken said didn't "fly".

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Ken didn't say anything.

[@13degn]

FAA bends to "I'm offended" cancel culture is my guess. Sad day for FAA. Looks to be some in the FAA are not really for GA and real open conversations without big-brother looking in on one's private time. The action only damages the mission. REINSTATE HIM! He has done 10,000 times more positive for aviation to warrant such heavy handed nonsense on a trivial matter in comparison. A howitzer to get a fly?

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@Brutalwhan]

Not a good way to behave as a governing body. I am over in the UK and am disgusted by this. We have a government petition system ousrselves that brings things up to try and force change. We also have ombudsman services also. Do.tou not have anything like that over there.i would be more than happy to sign a petition or something. Good luck guys

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how this pans out.

[@atg197]

So what happened to this DPE?

[@AllAmericanAviation]

wrongfully terminated by the San Antonio FSDO.

[@atg197]

Yes I figured that, but where did he go? Did he retire? Thanks. @@AllAmericanAviation

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Sorry for the delayed response! He is still instructing and involved in aviation education.

[@bhobful]

He got the same treatment as Bob Hoover. It seems like the FAA's management systems allows individual inspectors to go rogue, and there's not much recourse.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Yehp

[@michaeldavis7911]

Same crap the FAA pulled on Bob Hoover!

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@Cdrop20]

It would be interesting if you could get the FAA representatives who investigated this man to do an interview.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

I would love to.

[@leeadams5941]

He pissed off the wrong bureaucrat who wanted him gone, or got in somebodies rice bowl..if he would send a student back for a mile I guarantee he has pissed of many folks. No matter how good he is, it does not matter to the FAA and their bureaucracy. What matters to them is being a yes man and quoting their policy. By their policy I mean whoever is in charge at the time.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how it all pans out.

[@jamespeay4811]

Free Ken

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Exactly

[@camerongoodwin2020]

Shame on the San Antonio FSDO and the FAA!

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how this works out.

[@Connor_G21A]

I can’t believe you would water ski someone else’s airplane .

[@AllAmericanAviation]

no one is advocating water skiing in someone esles airplane. It's was a figure of speech.

[@Connor_G21A]

@@AllAmericanAviation He water skied an airplane he didn’t own.

[@alpenglow1235]

@@Connor_G21A , when a slight of judgment turns into a learning experience, it's a win. In this case, the punishment does not fit the crime because waterskiing is not a crime. Unless you want to turn it into a crime to suit your agenda.

[@SkyBaum]

Unfortunate his webcam was Not broken the night of the webinar. 😔 #SkyBaum

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@wgd997]

This is an easily unfortunate explainable incident, look who’s in charge of the FAA. Simple as that.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Hopefully change will occur.

[@glenwhatley7366]

The FAA along with other institutions has definitely forgotten what their main directive is. Its safety and what they have been doing lately is anything but safe. I've been building and flying rc planes since the age of twelve and their drone policy is not at all based on safety. There is a reason why a hobby of over one hundred years has a safe record regarding flying without incursions to manned aircraft following AMA guidelines and procedures. Yet, the AMA wasn't even allowed to the table in regards to their NPRM. Their first rules were actually challenged in the Supreme court and they lost. So in response the FAA abused their power and exercised emergency powers to pass their law anyway. As a person with two airman ratings after this I have lost all respect for the FAA. They are more motivated by greed than safety and I intend to continue in my hobby safely flying regardless of what they tell me I can and can't do when its only for their economic benefit and is actually unconstitutional.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@dmc8078]

We all know by now, you do not joke with the FAA. Choose your words carefully before posting anything.

[@dickjohnson4268]

I'm retired... Come get me FSDOs. Of course, there are some really good FSDOs and DPEs, but they're "like a box of chock-lits."

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@dickjohnson4268]

@@AllAmericanAviation Many, many, thanks. Still thinking of Ken. Having been in aviation, starting in 1963, I can only imagine his heartache, and heartburn over this fiasco. There was another 'turned blind eye' recently at our regional "FUssDoh" with regards to the local D(u)PE. What concerns me is the rash of accidents and incidents during the past 13 months. Without DPEs like Ken, there will be more cause for concern.

[@jackriley5974]

If you act abnormal you will be treated as abnormal. If you feel the need to joy ride, go to Disneyland.

[@peregrine3845]

found the marginal pilot

[@lowslow3714]

I joy ride every time I fly.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@billroberts9182]

Bureaucratic Stupidity is infuriating! Better expect more with the new democrat led federal government! It's what we collectively want. We are getting what we deserve.

[@mikercflyer7383]

Oh God they might restrict GA aviation. The Green New Deal.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

99.9% of the FAA is very positive and very good. This is just one thing that needs to get looked at closely for repair.

[@skyboy1956]

what the FAA giveth, the FAA can taketh away.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

We shall see how this pans out.

[@jessetait5839]

Tres, you are mistaken. The primary function of the FAA is not safety. It’s charter was safety, but it’s function is compliance. Compliance only brings about safety if the rules drive that outcome. But those rules do not, because the FAA has no requirement to correct their system. Also, FSDOs are dropping DPEs across the country since they’re no longer restricted to geographic boundaries. DPE surveillance takes time, and field offices are very sorely short on that. DPE terminations are just a symptom of overworked FSDOs trying to juggle competing requirements for their time.

[@TresClinton]

FAAs Mission www.faa.gov/airports/central/about_airports/CE_mission/

[@TresClinton]

Actually this link is better. FAAs mission. www.faa.gov/about/

[@jessetait5839]

@@TresClinton What defines a person, their words or their actions? The same is true of organizations.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@Aphxphotog]

Who ever shot this broke the axis with the wide shot with the lights in the shot side. Look up breaking the line of action or breaking the axis in film production. Big no no and very jarring

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@larrywells2733]

DPEs are FAA appointed and serve at the FAAs pleasure and this is made clear to the DPE when they are designated. You will never know the whole story because the FAA Inspectors are not allowed to state their position publicly. The designation program does not require the FAA to explain anything to you, as it should be.

[@guitarpilots76]

Well said, royal subject!

[@Yahecniv]

@Larry Wells You aren’t wrong, however you are allowing yourself to have a very narrow perspective. The FAA can revoke anyone/anytime/any reason. The larger context is not “can they”, but rather: should they? And what are the consequences of the FAA actions when they do?

[@larrywells2733]

Vince, I disagree with the statement “The FAA can revoke anyone/anytime/any reason.” There are regulations and internal guidance for FAA Inspectors that spell out the reasons for and the process of revocation. Go outside that process and the FAA lawyers will stop the process. DPEs operate under a different set of rules, whether we agree or not. We can talk about what they should or shouldn’t do but ultimately that is just that, “talk”. As I stated before, DPEs serve at the pleasure of the FAA, period.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Larry, you and that midset are the exact problems today. The FAA owes any decision on public record to the citizens. The government works for us, not the other way around.

[@Eagle737]

I whole heartedly disagree to your alcohol comments in this video --- No discredit to the man as I don't know him. I also assume him to be a standup man with a strong character. I don't think his actions were malicious or dangerous. I do think they were a mistake though and the FAA was within their right to exercise the termination. He's still a DPE, regardless of the role at the event. He was there, and the people in the room knew he was a representative of the FAA even not being "on the clock." This situation as a professional in the industry isn't different than an airline pilot off duty, driving home, and stopping at the grocery store and buying alcohol while still in uniform. It's just something you can't do because the optics are in conflict with the profession. You on your own time can still be a representative of your employer. The man in this case was at an aviation safety online event and was a representative (albeit not officially) of the FAA at the time. He slipped up, it was wrong regardless of the lack of operational impact or understanding of the participants, and the FAA decided to end their use of him as their official representative. That is completely within their right to exercise. He can still fly he just can't work for the FAA at present.

[@Tvillekiller1]

Comments like this is why GA will continue to die a slow, expensive death.

[@johnfife3062]

Without disagreeing with your hardline take, Jet, let me ask you these questions: 1. Is not the damage done to GA/FAA relationship, in the fallout from this action taken against Ken, far disproportionate to Ken's infraction? 2. In other words, was the mission of the FAA best served by this action? 3. Is there anything about Ken's conduct that could not have been well and truly fixed with a friendly phone call? Imagine this: The FAA calls Ken after the event and says, "As you know, we're concerned about water skiing airplanes because KZbin might be giving pilots the wrong idea. Your silence on the topic, when it came up in the webinar last night, might have been misconstrued. Would you and your associates consider adding the topic to your next webinar? Given your reputation and considerable influence among pilots, the GA community would be well served by your clear guidance on the topic. And from now on, leave behind anything that looks like booze, ok?" That would have been a win-win. Think Ken and the makers of this video would have said anything short of "Yes, absolutely!" Just because the FAA has the absolute Godlike power to do something -- as you make clear -- does not justify the exercise of that power in such a way as to bring discredit upon the FAA. Today the FAA has given itself yet another black eye and that benefits absolutely no one. (Somebody higher up needs to have a friendly conversation with the administrator who pulled this stunt.)

[@Eagle737]

@@johnfife3062 I absolutely agree with you. I personally feel there could have been a million better ways the issues were addressed between the employer and employee. My opinion however is that this is simply a case of that... an employer and “employee” and that they (FAA) were within their right to take the actions they took. The pitchfork and torch backlash from the vast community in support of Ken against the FAA I feel is misguided. We weren’t privy to the events behind the scenes. We as the general public won’t know everything said between him and his “employer.” I get that the GA community feels that this damages the FAA/GA relationship but, this is fallout from reading tea leaves over something that wasn’t between the average pilot and the feds. This was them ending their use of him to directly represent them... not taking a single license of his or anyone else’s away. I might think it was at face value was overreaction on the FAA’s part but, it was their choice and one they had the right to make.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment, we shall see how this all pans out.

[@richdavidson8554]

There's your problem. You've all bought in this Safety First, safety above flying, safety hysteria, to the point of making even more safety programs thinking all along your assigned FAA bureaucrat would bestow upon you great kindness or possibly a Lordship for being such fine Safety Susies. Now you've seen the reality, but I doubt you'll learn. You should never purposely try to be dangerous, but to participate in the race to the bottom of safety sets you all up for similar hand that feeds you situations.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Thanks for your comment.

[@llzaqwsx]

I'm too distracted by the one dudes head bobbing the whole conversation

[@AllAmericanAviation]

Hahaha - thanks for the comment!

[@dickjohnson4268]

I'm glad the FAA fired him. He would not have lasted long with our FSDO. The D(u)PE here is the FSDO'S dream dupe. This guy lies, cheats, decieves the FAA, and is a total space case. He is the director of ops for the 135 company he works for. He'll bust an applicant for doing the same things that 'his' 135 chief pilot does operationally. The difference; no pink slip for his CP, ever. He's failed three PCs this past year alone. This particular applicant didn't do a double check for traffic while turning final. Sooooo... for another $800 the next day, they flew around the patch and the kid got his private certification, and a $1600 bill for the checkride. On charters, the D(u)Pe is constantly busting regs. "Call for the visual, we have the airport in sight." Great... he can see through 3000' of clouds over the airport. As you can see... Ken would not fit in. I guess the FAA likes "standardization" around here. I have wondered how much this D(ousche)PE kicks back to the FSDO for pink slips and re-tests. Get 'em, Ken.

[@AllAmericanAviation]

I'm not sure what your first sentence means in it's context.

[@dickjohnson4268]

@@AllAmericanAviation It is a sarcastic comment towards the local FSDO around here. Notice the rest of my diatribe about the local D(u)PE. This is a standardization issue in this area. Obviously, since Ken is a professional, the FSDO up here would side (and has sided with) the Local examiner here against other great DPEs in the area. Ask Ken if he knows about how the pylon eights were 'invented' as a comm manuever. This D(u)PE failed a comm applicant since he didn't know that "the manuever was used in Viet Nam by AC-130s to shoot the VC." This DUPE has been an examiner for over 20 years. His flight school holds the record for the highest cost for a pvt license: $19,680. And yet the FSDO loves this guy and would dislike Ken. His training method in King Airs on engine failures disregards the AFTH sequence. He insists that the trainee feather it manually circumventing what the KA is designed to do. Just what you want to do during an engine failure; disarm the AFTH.

[@dickjohnson4268]

@@AllAmericanAviation Please keep up the great work. We're pulling for Ken.