Thomas Vearil

Thomas "TJ" Vearil is a distinguished FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) and aviation professional based in Lebanon, Ohio. With a career spanning several decades in both fixed-wing and rotorcraft operations, Vearil is widely recognized for his specialized expertise in helicopter aviation. He is the co-founder of Vertical Advantage Helicopters, established in 2007, and serves as an Enstrom Factory Pilot Instructor. His professional credentials include being a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and an Authorized Enstrom Insurance Program Check Pilot, reflecting a high level of technical proficiency and thousands of flight hours accumulated across the Southwest Ohio region.

Vearil’s career is defined by an unwavering commitment to safety, as evidenced by his company's long-standing perfect safety record. As a DPE for the Cincinnati Flight Standards District Office, he is known for his thorough and fair evaluation process, ensuring that all candidates meet the rigorous requirements of the FAA Airman Certification Standards. Beyond his examiner roles, his background encompasses a variety of commercial operations, including air charter, aerial photography, and law enforcement support. This extensive operational experience allows him to mentor upcoming aviators with a focus on real-world decision-making and a safety-first mindset that is vital in the modern aviation environment.