Pilot Perspectives: Flying an Organ Mission

PCC’s CEO Laura Epstein had a chance to sit down with Pilot, Tyler Vizenor, who has flown a multitude of these organ procurement missions. Here are some excerpts from the interview:

When and how did you decide to become a pilot?

[Tyler] When I was 12 I decided I wanted to do it. My family traveled every year, and I loved the anticipation of waiting to go on a trip, waking up early to go to an airport. I also loved the chaos and calm that would occur simultaneously within the airport. And as most kids, I was very intrigued and fascinated with airplanes. With all that, I decided that becoming a pilot would be the perfect career for me.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

[Tyler] I love connecting people with where they have to go. It is also pretty awesome being able to be in a completely different area in less than 12 hours.

What’s your favorite part about flying these live-saving missions?

[Tyler] I am honored to be a part of someone’s life-saving process. Although the transportation is generally overlooked, we [pilots] are able to be one small part of their journey from being chronically ill to feeling better. In such, it is extremely gratifying on a personal level.

What was one of the most memorable flights you’ve taken?

[Tyler] A few months ago, we picked up heart in WASA, and flew to Boston. Because of our incredible mission, we got priority to land. It was pretty sweet being able to cut in front of the jets in our small airplane at major airport. I can’t say I have been able to do that before.

Do you ever get any feedback from the surgical teams onboard?

[Tyler] It is funny because oftentimes the surgical teams will take a nap on the flight. I am glad they feel so comfortable travelling with us and I love being able to provide them with their favorite snacks for when they wake up. The teams often compliment us and express gratitude for our part in keeping them safe and continuing the mission of organ transplantation.