Dr. Shahin began flying in 1986 to avoid jammed freeways while commuting to work at a medical clinic. He is licensed as an instrument flight and ground instructor, and also has commercial and multiengine ratings. In 1988 he began flying the Cessna 210, and now has over 1,400 hours.

Samir Shahin, M.D. was born in Los Angeles in 1957. After graduating from UCLA with honors in 1977 (after only 3 years) with a degree in Biology, he attended medical school at USC, and did surgical training a UCLA/ Harbor General. Board Certified in Occupational Medicine, he is the Medical Director of Expresscare Medical Clinic, a 24 hour Occupational and Family Practice Clinic at LAX.  His credentials include being a FAA Senior Aviation Medical Examiner, and a captain in the Civil Air Patrol. He is the Flight Surgeon and Chief Medical Officer of AVMAS, a volunteer group that transports disabled veterans.