Flying and Dying: An Airline Pilot’s Journey From Cardiac Arrest to Recovery
An American Airlines pilot on being revived with CPR and an AED, and what it taught him about health, family and identity.
Tom Heidema fell in love with flying at age four and started lessons at 14. In November 2020, he went into cardiac arrest and was revived with CPR and an AED. In this episode, he tells the whole story.
- 01From CFI to commuter airlines to American Airlines
- 02Surviving cardiac arrest in November 2020
- 03Why he advocates for AEDs in public places
- 04Health, fitness and identity beyond flying
- 05What airlines look for in pilot candidates
A career built on mentors
Tom credits mentors and colleagues who became friends on his path from CFI to captain.
Cardiac arrest
He lost consciousness in November 2020 and was revived with CPR and an AED, which led him to advocate for AEDs in public spaces.
Flying and Dying
His book covers his life in aviation and the importance of mental health and resilience. A portion of proceeds goes to cardiac arrest awareness.
Tom Heidema
Tom Heidema is an American Airlines pilot and the author of Flying and Dying.
Frequently asked questions
What do airlines look for in pilot candidates?
Tom Heidema points to technical skill, interpersonal ability and a willingness to advocate for others.
What is Flying and Dying about?
Tom Heidema’s book about his aviation career and surviving cardiac arrest.
