James Heckman

James Heckman is a seasoned aviator and FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) based in Whitefish, Montana. Originally from Oregon, Heckman began his professional flight career in Kalispell, where he served as a flight instructor for both fixed-wing and rotorcraft. His diverse background includes extensive backcountry charter flying and a transformative tenure with Era Helicopters in Alaska, where he navigated the rugged and unpredictable environments of Denali National Park. These experiences established his reputation as an expert in high-altitude and complex mountain operations, forming the foundation of his thousands of hours of flight experience.

Currently serving as the Chief Pilot for Two Bear Air Rescue, Heckman is a prominent leader in the search and rescue (SAR) community. He specializes in night vision goggle (NVG) operations and precision hoist rescues in the demanding terrain of the Northern Rockies. Prior to his piloting career, Heckman’s background as a helicopter-based firefighter instilled a rigorous, safety-first mindset that remains a hallmark of his professional standards. As a DPE, he leverages this deep operational knowledge to evaluate the next generation of airmen, emphasizing technical proficiency, risk management, and a disciplined approach to aviation safety.