yz450f177

I agree that SDL is the most useless. Maybe they all suck.

wrxpilot

Over the years I've had to deal with the MIA FSDO on several occasions, for things like 135 checkrides, SIC types, RVSM issues, etc. They take absolutely FOREVER, as they're basically overloaded with all of the work down there. But every time I have worked with them, everybody I've encountered has been friendly, professional, and very fair. I've never dealt with the MCO FSDO, but I hear they aren't anything like the MIA folks (e.g. not pilot friendly).

BoilerUP

I've heard terrible things about Miami, Orlando and Scottsdale.

I have had great experiences with IND...16 days for an RVSM LOA, and when we got our new airplane the POI called *me* and said if I sent him the pink slip he could issue the LOA via fax for the new plane and FedEx me the paper copy before we left the factory.

Also had a good experience processing a CFI renewal with SDF.

Nextlife

I had a good experience with the Tampa FSDO. Did my MCI paperwork with them. It wasn't extremently quick, but the guy hadn't done many and was being thorough. I had copies of the appropriate FARs and sheets as recommended by Sheppard Air and the guy was good enough to listen and use what I pointed out without getting butt hurt that he wasn't the expert on this one topic. However, had a guy I work with call for the same thing a few weeks ago and was told they are too busy and to contact a DE to get it taken care of.

Second issue with another co-worker this week (second hand info FWIW) - was supposed to take his ATP check with a particular examiner who hadn't done an ATP with a mil pilot who had no other civilian tickets. Apparently he asked so many questions of the FSDO that they FSDO decided they were going to audit the checkride. Don't know what this says about the FSDO and there are probably big pieces of the story I don't know about, so YMMV.

Jersdawg

I've heard STL is not very good. Pain in the butt to renew a simple CFI.

I've used PHL and BWI, and PHL has been great every time.