Master your Checkride with Mary Schu DPE
Written by:
Tim Jedrek
A 50-Year Lens on Flight Training
What Flight Schools Can Learn from DPE Mary Schu’s Journey
“I was told I was too old and too short. Years later, they came calling.”
These words from Designated Pilot Examiner Mary Schu land like a crosswind on final—sudden, sharp, and unforgettable. With five decades of aviation experience, Schu offers a rare, hard-earned perspective on how far aviation has come—and where flight schools may be veering off course.
From Underdog to Aviation Icon
Mary Schu’s path into aviation was anything but traditional. Initially aspiring to become a Formula 1 driver, she shifted her sights skyward when she realized that opportunity was closed to women in her era. Her background in special education became a surprising asset, giving her the tools to connect with students and become a standout flight instructor. Her journey is proof that powerful educators often come from unexpected places.
Old-School Flight Training vs. the Modern Fast Track
Back in the 1970s, pilots-in-training earned their wings through hands-on experience and real-life problem-solving. Schu herself completed a 40-hour solo cross-country journey—an adventure that built confidence and shaped her into a skilled decision-maker.
Today, many instructors see the role as a brief layover on the way to the airlines. Flight schools are embracing accelerated programs that prioritize speed and budget over depth and skill. Schu points out that under current systems, some students may qualify for commercial certification with fewer than five hours of solo cross-country time. That’s more than a red flag—it’s a distress call.
The High Cost of Cutting Corners
Reducing solo flight time and omitting tasks like self-serve fueling or navigating unfamiliar airports can save time, but it comes at a steep cost. Schu warns that students are missing opportunities to build the independence and confidence essential for airline careers. Real growth comes from navigating challenges—not just logging hours.
Four Strategies for Stronger Pilots
Flight school owners have the power to reverse this trend. Here’s how:
- Reinvest in Solo Flight: Go beyond the FAA minimums. Encourage students to venture out, challenge themselves, and gain true PIC experience.
- Foster Long-Term Instructors: Develop a culture that values career CFIs. Offer pathways for growth, mentorship roles, and incentives to build a stable team.
- Teach Practical Skills: Make real-world tasks like flight planning, fueling, and FBO navigation part of your training. These details matter.
- Adapt to the Individual: One-size-fits-all timelines don’t work for everyone. Tailored training leads to stronger, more competent pilots.
The Final Approach
Mary Schu’s legacy isn’t just about perseverance; it’s a blueprint for the future of flight training. As the aviation industry evolves, so must our standards. Let’s stop focusing on producing pilots faster and cheaper. Instead, let’s focus on producing pilots who are prepared, adaptable, and exceptional.
Let’s raise the standard. Let’s honor Mary’s journey—not by speeding through the process, but by making every hour count.