David A
Captain - A380
Airline Pilot Experience:
FO/SFO, Captain, LTC, TRI
Most Recent Aircraft Type:
A380
Training Route:
Modular ATPL
Aviation Specific Degree:
No
Languages:
English
Location:
Dubai
Additional Experience/Qualifications:
Aviation training, Competency based training
Passions, Interests and Experience:
Wellbeing, Pilot competencies
Why did you want to become a pilot?
I had always been interested in aeroplanes. Living in Cumbria as a young lad, I used to see the vapour trails of the transatlantic flights pass overhead and thought I want to do that and how come they are flying north when my Altas says America is west!
How did you fund your training?
Whilst working- self funded.
Was training a breeze or did you find it a challenge?
It had its challenges: - Financially
- Repeating one exam
- Weather delays and work commitments
What was most challenging?
Studying for the written exams.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Variety- every day is different, constantly learning. The feeling of a job well done. Teamwork. Social aspect.
What is most challenging about your job?
Arranging sleep patterns.
Which of the pilot competencies are of most interest to you and why?
Communication. I feel this ties all the other competencies together, thus leading to a safe and successful outcome.
Additional info:
My airline provides mentoring flights for first officers who are approaching their upgrade, and I have been involved with those. I would also add that being a good captain and training captain, I think naturally provides mentoring and coaching where necessary.
Why do you want to become a mentor for Resilient Pilot?
I would like to become a mentor for Resilient Pilot because I have been impressed with the support Resilient Pilot has been able to offer other pilots and aviation related staff since the early days of covid.
Personally I have experience in HM Forces, medical commercial world and aviation. With these different experiences I have been able to connect and communicate with people from different walks of life who are interested in aviation and share my experiences.
My aviation experience has ranged from GA/PPL, through to an airline training captain on a wide body long haul jet. This has included turbo props, low cost, charter and short to medium range flying.
I feel I have the experience, open friendly communication skills to help people in an industry where I have also experienced the “ ups and downs.”
What do you believe you can offer your mentees?
I can offer my mentees a two way street of communication where I can share my experiences and possibly develop their skills and knowledge. I will be a positive roll model, compassionate, give guidance where possible and help the mentee to develop themselves by setting goals and targets where necessary. I want to see them succeed in their dreams and careers.