15 - Master your Checkride with Mary Schu DPE - The Aviation Business Podcast

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 IconMary 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 TrackBack 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 CornersReducing 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 [e-mail]#flightschoolmarketing #flightschools #aviation #flying