Wojtek G - British Airways - B787
- Captain
- Jun 1, 2017
- 2 min read
1) Tell us what made you want to become a pilot?
I had an increasing love for flying and being around aircraft, it became my hobby and I became pulled into the sphere of influence of aviation which pushed me to become a pilot.
2) Where did you train and describe your experience training there?
I trained at Ventura Flight Training located in Farmingdale, New York. My experience training there was fantastic, and I would certainly recommend them for any aspiring pilots in or around the area.
3) What aircraft did you fly during your initial training?
The aircraft I trained on was a Piper Warrior II.
4) What was your hardest part of training?
Personally, there was no hardest part in training. However, some candidates may struggle in the vision segment of the Aeromedical Examination, in which very good vision is required to pass.
5) What advice would you give to aspiring pilot?
The advice I would give to aspiring pilots (my son included) is to achieve good grades in school or college, have a positive attitude towards your ambitions and more importantly, to never give up. No matter how hard it may be, If you believe you can do it you will.
6) What has been your best moment in the air?
The best moment I've had in the air was while operating BA175 from London to New York in 2011, when a passenger proposed to his then girlfriend halfway into the flight. Definitely one of my most memorable experiences I've ever had while flying.
7) What is your favourite destination to fly to?
My favorite destinations to fly to are New Orleans and Tokyo, simply due to the fantastic nightlife, culture and people you run into.
8) What is the biggest misconception that people have about your job?
One of the biggest misconceptions people often have about being a pilot is schedules. If you have a family, you have to adjust to not seeing them as often as you'd wish. Of course, this depends largely on the type of carrier you fly on. If you fly as a pilot for a domestic or short haul carriers such as easyJet, Ryanair etc. Then you will have many flights a day and will usually end the day back at home. However, long-haul pilots such as me are abroad on shifts for a large portion of time, due to aviation regulations citing that pilots require a certain amount of rest before taking to the skies in order to prevent any fatigue-related accidents.
9) Was there something you wish you did prior to starting your flight training that would be beneficial for aspiring pilots to do?
Personally for me, I wish I had made a financial plan for costs related to flight training, as it would have been a more pleasurable experience overall, not having to worry about finances. For aspiring pilots, I advise that you care for yourself and have a positive attitude to your aspirations. The Aeromedical Examination can, for some, be the trickiest part of completing your flying license, so good health is essential for a smooth path towards the flight deck.
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