Complaint Challenges Lack of Due Process in DPE Terminations

FAA’s system ‘opens the door’ to malicious complaints and unfair proceedings, plaintiffs say.

Meg Godlewski

Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 01:00 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

Flight instructor and student inside small Piper aircraft [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

A class-action lawsuit has been filed by former Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) against the FAA, alleging a lack of due process in their suspension or termination.
The complaint highlights that DPE designations, considered a "privilege and not a right," can be terminated immediately without explanation, often after an investigation initiated by a complaint.
This system reportedly leads to arbitrary dismissals, potential discrimination (e.g., age-based), DPEs compromising safety standards due to fear of reprisal, and negatively impacts the pilot training environment by increasing wait times and costs.

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A class action complaint on behalf of Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

The 36-page complaint was filed on behalf of former DPEs Robert Lasky and Joseph Puglia, both of Florida. The complaint is designed to bring attention to the fact that there is no due process for DPEs who are suspended or terminated.