Gleim introduces Otto, a virtual DPE

While one can almost hear the jokes about available designated pilot examiners being so hard to find that training companies need to create their own, the potential value of a virtual DPE for study purposes is clear, especially given the recent trend of more frequent failures on private pilot tests.

Gleim, located in Hangar A, Booth No. 1104, said Otto and its other training aids are designed “to get pilots in the air—faster, more prepared, and safer.” In Otto’s case, that means preparing students to confidently pass the oral and practical tests the first time, which is especially important when examiners with free time on their schedules are rare.

Otto uses Call Simulator conversation-training technology to mimic typical interactions between applicants and examiners. Otto asks questions and the student answers in a real-time rhythm that helps students prepare to address real DPEs without feeling nervous, intimidated, or overwhelmed. Following the student’s answer, the platform displays an FAA-referenced answer, giving users an idea of how to craft clear, precise, and correct responses. The training is designed to feel like an on-demand private practice session with an FAA examiner.

“Gleim’s mission is to anticipate industry training challenges and deliver powerful, practical tools to overcome them—so pilots spend less time worrying and more time flying,” said Garrett Gleim, president of Gleim Aviation. “At Oshkosh, we’re not simply showcasing products, we’re unveiling solutions that redefine aviation training from the ground up. Our vision is clear: empower learners, elevate safety, and reshape how aviation education delivers results.”

Gleim’s other new training aids on display at AirVenture include its FAA-approved basic aviation training device, which now incorporates X-Plane 12 flight simulation, allowing students to log hours at more than 14,000 airports worldwide; the Career Pilot Training Logbook, developed in partnership with well-known instructor, DPE, and writer Jason Blair, aimed at raising the precision and accuracy of logging hours for CFIs, flight schools, and career pilots; and Cross-Check for FAR Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools, which is designed to help instructors more accurately track their students’ progress and efficiently tailor lessons to their needs.

Irvin N. Gleim, who died in 2021, founded Gleim in 1974 to help accounting students pass their certification exam. After enjoying success with that initial endeavor, he developed Gleim Aviation, which drew on his aviation expertise and his desire to make pilot training more accessible.