Lunken Flight Training Center Receives FAA Approval for Self-Examining Authority

Cincinnati, OH- June 17th, 2026- Lunken Flight Training Center (LFTC) has been issued Self-Examining Authority (SEA) by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Self-Examining Authority allows a select few Part 141 Flight Schools to administer in-house end of course examinations in place of traditional checkrides. LFTC is proud to be one of less than 80 flight schools in the country to offer Self-Examining Authority .

Self-Examining Authority significantly benefits both students and Lunken Flight Training Center in many ways. Primarily, SEA will allow students to take an end of course examination at LFTC rather than travel to a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) to earn their certificate or rating. LFTC will offer both Private Pilot and Instrument Rating examinations in-house. SEA will alleviate the notoriously long wait times for students to take a checkride, and eliminates fees associated with discontinuing or rescheduling a checkride.

Rick Miller, Chief Flight Instructor, states:

“Earning Self-Examining Authority from the FAA fundamentally changes how we deliver training. Our students are no longer waiting weeks for a checkride; they’re progressing seamlessly from training to certification while everything is still fresh. It means lower costs, better continuity, and a more consistent standard of evaluation. Most importantly, it reflects the quality and discipline of our instructors and students. This is a major, exciting step forward for our school and for every pilot who trains here.”

Jay, Owner, States “There are thousands of flight schools across the country. There are less than 80 flight schools who have been granted Self Examining Authority. Lunken Flight Training Center is an excellent position as we move into our next phase of growth.”

Multiple senior flight instructing staff at LFTC have been designated to oversee and conduct these end of course examinations. LFTC is committed to continuing to produce the most safe, competent, and professional pilots in the region.