Life before the flight deck
What were you doing before you began your pilot training?
Before commencing my pilot training I was the founder of a media agency which was eventually acquired by a larger group of companies.
What made you want to become a pilot?
Flying aeroplanes was something I’d wanted to do since as long as I can remember. I had a trial lesson just after my 14th birthday and this only confirmed my passion for flying. I think that once you have tasted flight, a part of you will always want to be in the sky.
What steps did you take to start your journey
I initially commenced PPL training at my local flying club aged 14. Eventually school exams came along and I entered the world of work so flying was put on the back-burner. After my business was acquired and after my 21st birthday, I realised I ought to do what my heart was telling me to do for the rest of my life and fly. I initially passed the entrance exams for a large, global flight school, but after meeting with the guys at Aeros I instantly changed my mind and signed up to the Aeros Fastrack course. Do your research! Ask for meetings!
"I think that once you have tasted flight, a part of you will always want to be in the sky. "
What route have you taken for your training?
I chose to sign up to the Aeros Fastrack course which allows me to continue some work as a marketing consultant, working with various businesses, whilst I am completing the course. It is essentially an accelerated modular route.
Training for the flight deck
How does life compare from before you started training to actually doing the training?
Life is always better if you’re flying! But on a serious note, I had planned to fit 3 days per week of flight training around my consulting work which covers the rest of the week. It’s gone as planned due to the fantastic flexibility Aeros offer.
What challenges have you found during your training, and how did you overcome them?
Every step is a challenge, but I think the best way to overcome challenges is to tackle them head on, throw yourself in the deep end! If you have a passion for something you will happily take on whatever challenges it throws at you.
"Every step is a challenge, but I think the best way to overcome challenges is to
tackle them head on, throw yourself into the deep end."
What have been your highlights or most memorable moments of your training, so far?
Of course, the day of my first solo and the buzz afterwards was a major highlight, but honestly, every moment you’re flying is a highlight and it is an honour to be able to do so.
If there was something you wish you knew before you started training, no matter how trivial, what would it be?
Sometimes you feel more like a weatherman than a pilot!
Reflection from the flight deck
What are you hoping to do in the future once you have completed your training?
Obviously we all hope to get a first officer job. The business and corporate aviation sector interests me a lot. A private jet would be a nice gig!
Do you have a dream job, airline, or aircraft type you hope to someday work with or on?
It would have to be a Gulfstream G650. An aircraft made pretty famous by the song “Like A G6”. It’s a long range business jet that can hit speeds of 1,000km/h and heights of 51,000ft.
"Network, focus on the challenge right before you, [and] enjoy every minute!"
What advice would you give to anyone thinking about becoming a pilot or someone who is just about to start their training?
Don’t just fall for marketing ploys put out by huge, corporate flight schools. Look for a flight school that genuinely cares. Aeros genuinely care. I have relationships with all staff, instructors and students. Even the owner of the school will have time for you!
And finally, what advice would you give yourself before your route to the flight deck began?
Network, network, network!
Focus on the challenge right before you
Enjoy every minute.
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