CAP. JUAN CARLOS PORTILLO, Pilot, Program Manager of ADS (Allas de Socorro / Wings of Help)

Juan was born in Monterey, Mexico to a British mom and Mexican dad.  He is married to Johanna, and they have three children, Rebekah 10, Benjamin 8, and Hannah 6.   

Growing up Juan wanted to serve the Lord in full time ministry in some way.  When he was a child his dad, who was a principal of a private school, was called upon in 1985 to make a video showing the work of MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship).  At that time there were no roads into the villages, only mule trains or a 4-5 day walk to access villages.  The result of his dad’s project became Juan’s first inspiration to become a missionary pilot.

MAF’s first program began in Mexico.  They partnered with Wycliffe Bible translators flying them in and out of remote areas.  Pilots also flew tons of corn into villages during the drought of 1985-86, and vaccination sirum that needed to be kept in a cool environment. During this time, at the age of twelve, Juan read Nate Saint’s Jungle Pilot and knew that becoming a missionary pilot was his destiny.  

While Juan was attending Bible school, friends of his parents also became inspired by MAF through a mission’s conference.  They decided to use a portion of their inheritance money to fund a young person’s education to become a missionary pilot.  The gift was given to Juan as he completed stages of his education.

In the mid 80’s the Catholic church created opposition against missionaries in Mexico, and put pressure on the government to have all missionaries removed from the country.  As a result there was a huge downsizing of Mexican pilots.

MAF in Mexico has taken the form of a non-profit organization called ADS (Allas de Socorro / Wings of Help).  Because of the Catholic church, and government regulations, they cannot be openly religious.  However, as they access difficult mountainous areas, they are able to bring service to many communities.  As a result the people are trusting and open to the teaching of Biblical values, along with the learning of Scripture.  

Juan has served as a missionary pilot for the past nine years, using his skills in medical emergencies, natural disasters, and development projects.

This story is the result of my interview with Juan on Friday, June 26. 2009.