✈ KSRC — Searcy Municipal Airport, Arkansas 📅 Schedule Your Checkride  |  ✉ [email protected]

About Travis Alkire

FAA Designated Pilot Examiner · Veteran · Central Arkansas

Travis Alkire in uniform next to a Citation CJ3+
Citation CJ3+ · Training CA

Who I Am

I'm an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner based at Searcy Municipal Airport (KSRC), and I'm honored to serve the Central Arkansas aviation community in that role. I spent 20 years in the United States Air Force as a C-130E/H Loadmaster — a career that instilled in me a deep respect for safety, discipline, and doing things the right way. Since leaving the military, I've continued flying in civilian aviation across Part 91K, 135, and 121 operations, and I currently fly the 737NG and Max 8. I bring that real-world, everyday flying experience into every checkride I conduct. My goal is simple: give every applicant a fair, thorough, and respectful evaluation. You've put in the work — I take that seriously.

Travis Alkire flying above the clouds in a small aircraft
Active Aviator Real-world GA experience above the clouds — brought to every checkride
C-130 rear ramp open in flight during Air Force service
20 Years USAF C-130E/H Loadmaster — a career built on safety, discipline, and precision
Aerial view of the Golden Gate Bridge from a small aircraft

Where Aviation Takes You

From Central Arkansas to the California coast — the freedom of flight is something every pilot deserves to experience.

Travis and his family flying together
Aviation is a Family Affair Flying isn't just a career — it's a way of life shared with the people I love most

Beyond the Checkride

Aviation isn't just what I do — it's how I live. My family has grown up around airports, airplanes, and the culture of flight. When I sit across from an applicant, I remember what it felt like to fall in love with this thing. That perspective shapes how I run every checkride.

My Mission

"My mission is simple: conduct every practical test with the fairness, thoroughness, and professionalism that every applicant deserves. You've worked hard to get here — I take that seriously."

Credentials & Background

FAA Designated Pilot Examiner

Authorized to conduct practical tests across multiple certificates and ratings.

United States Air Force Veteran

20 years as a C-130E/H Loadmaster — military precision in every evaluation.

Based at KSRC

Searcy Municipal Airport, Central Arkansas.

Veteran-Owned Small Business

245 Aviation LLC is certified as a VOSB.

Core Values

Safety First

Every decision prioritizes safety—yours and everyone in the airspace.

Fair Evaluation

You're evaluated on your skills and judgment, not arbitrary standards.

Military Precision

Professional standards and attention to detail in every checkride.

Community Focus

Supporting and strengthening Central Arkansas's aviation community.

Student Respect

Recognition of the effort and dedication you've put into your training.

Veteran Pride

Honoring service and the values of integrity and commitment.

Ready to Fly?

Let's get you prepared for your checkride. Schedule now or reach out with any questions.

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