Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be part of a company that operates in the exhilarating world of aviation? We had the pleasure of sitting down with Dean, one of Capital Air’s experienced line pilots and instructors, to get an insider’s perspective on Capital Air, the aviation industry, and the journey to becoming a pilot.
From Passion to Profession
Dean’s passion for flying ignited at a young age after his parents arranged a helicopter flip for him, sparking an enduring fascination with helicopters and aviation. Although his path to becoming a pilot included a couple of detours, he eventually pursued his dream and describes his experience as nothing short of amazing.
Navigating the Journey to Becoming a Pilot
One of the significant challenges in pursuing a career in aviation is securing funding, as it’s a relatively expensive industry to enter, but immensely rewarding. Aspiring pilots have several options to explore, including self-funding, where individuals pay for their training as they progress. Bursaries are also available through organizations like the CAA, although they can be quite competitive, particularly in the helicopter sector. Student loans can also provide financial assistance. Dean noted that many aspiring pilots often take a few years to enter the industry, saving and securing funds along the way.
During training, it’s natural to experience doubts about future job prospects and the overall outcome, given the substantial commitment of time and financial resources. Dean considers himself fortunate that things worked out well, noting the industry’s increasing accessibility with more opportunities and reduced entry barriers. He believes that now is an opportune time to enter the field.
Pilot Licensing: Key Requirements
Regarding the requirements to become a pilot, there are no formal prerequisites such as specific qualifications or matriculation. However, obtaining a pilot’s license does involve meeting certain criteria, including passing the SACAA exams and accumulating a minimum of 50 hours of training to earn a private license. While studying maths, physics, and geography can be beneficial, they are not mandatory. There are no age restrictions, but candidates must be at least 16 years old to obtain a private license and 18 years old to obtain a commercial license.
Helicopters: Versatility in Flight
When asked about his preference for helicopters, Dean highlighted the variety they offer. Helicopters are more specialized and not typically used for long-distance flights due to fuel limitations. However, they excel at accessing locations that are challenging to reach by other means, which Dean finds appealing as it often involves undertaking unique “missions”.
A Diverse Range of Career Paths
The helicopter industry presents a wide array of career paths. Pilots can engage in charter flying, providing scenic flights and transportation to various destinations, or pursue more technical roles such as slinging, which involves carrying external loads. There are also opportunities in more adventurous fields like crop spraying and game capturing, which are particularly prevalent in South Africa. For those with a passion for education, there’s the option to become a flight instructor, a role that Dean enjoys for its dynamic and challenging nature. Other potential career paths include offshore flying for oil rigs and ships, yacht flying, firefighting, and working in police or medical services, such as EMS flying, where pilots play a crucial role in saving lives.
Valuable Advice for Aspiring Pilots
Dean offered valuable advice for aspiring pilots, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and gathering comprehensive information. He stressed the significance of beginning with a medical check-up to ensure eligibility for an aviation medical certificate. He also suggested visiting several training schools before making a commitment, to find one that aligns with your schedule and objectives. If your goal is to obtain a private rating, choose a school that supports that goal, and if you aspire to go commercial, consider the opportunities available upon completing your training. Ultimately, Dean believes that having a well-defined plan is essential for success.
Life at Capital Air: An Insider’s Perspective
Dean shared his experiences of working at Capital Air, highlighting the variety of flying opportunities as a major advantage. The company features a training school and a maintenance facility, and pilots have the chance to assist with maintenance tasks, which Dean has found to be a valuable learning experience. The flying operations encompass a wide range of activities, from security operations to charters and slinging work, providing a diverse and engaging work environment.
Commitment to Quality and Support
Capital Air prides itself on maintaining its machines in excellent condition, which provides pilots with peace of mind. The company also fosters a collaborative environment with the maintenance team, encouraging open communication about any issues or concerns. This professional and supportive atmosphere contributes to making Capital Air a positive place to work. One of the attractions for pilots at Capital Air is the well-structured work environment. While there are contracts that involve working away from home, the structure is generally favourable, allowing pilots to be at home most evenings, which is not always typical for helicopter pilots, who often work in remote areas with temporary accommodations.
Prioritizing Safety in Operations
Dean also addressed the common question regarding the safety of helicopters. He reassured that the maintenance team is highly skilled and experienced, working on a variety of aircraft from Bell to Airbus. Pilots undergo regular training provided by respected figures in the industry, and safety is a top priority at Capital Air. The company has established procedures to minimize errors and ensure pilots are well-prepared to handle any unforeseen events that may occur. Dean appreciates the variety at Capital Air, with routine flights during the week complemented by less frequent but exciting charters and contracts, which adds an element of excitement and keeps the work interesting. This glimpse into Capital Air from a pilot’s perspective highlights the company’s dedication to safety, professionalism, and offering a dynamic and fulfilling environment for its pilots.