Forrest Crawford

Forrest Crawford began a career in helicopter aviation after being inspired by the Air Evac Lifeteam medical helicopters flying over rural Indiana during childhood. Crawford later served as an Air Evac Lifeteam line pilot flying out of Base 156 in Madison County, Illinois, a role that required intensive training and a Part 135 checkride under night vision goggles. Today, Crawford operates as an examiner with Ideal Aviation in Sauget, Illinois, and administers private, commercial, instrument, and flight instructor practical tests in helicopters, specifically the Bell 206 series and Guimbal Cabri G2. Crawford's examiner work spans multiple regions, including partnerships with Colorado Highland Helicopters in Durango, Colorado, and Semper Fly Helicopters in Norman, Oklahoma. In September 2026, Crawford conducted the CFI checkride for the University of Oklahoma’s first professional helicopter major to earn the rating, an achievement recognized on-field alongside university leadership. Crawford also travels nationwide to support helicopter flight schools and candidates in areas with limited examiner availability.