The University of West London and FlightPad hosted a Future Pilot Skills event on Saturday 17 January to equip aspiring and trainee commercial pilots with essential skills and resources to embark on their flying careers.
The free event brought together industry experts, flight training organisations such as British Airways, Loganair, EmPower Flight, The Air League and others and inspiring speakers on the skills and mindset required to achieve success in aviation.
Engaging activities and opportunities included aptitude skills assessments and technical workshops showcasing the day-to-day responsibilities of a professional pilot.
Presentations included Mohammed Khalil from British Airways giving insight into how to succeed in the Speedbird Pilot Academy, Miguel Cabrera Vivas of Fantasy Wings sharing his story of persisting through rejection, and a Confidence Awareness workshop with William Wright from The Honourable Company of Air Pilots.
Attendees were able to network with representatives from leading UK and EU flight schools and airline pilots, current trainees and airline recruiters from a variety of companies. They were also able to try out the University’s Boeing 737 simulator and enter competitions offering simulator time, flying lessons and equipment.
Senior Lecturer in Aviation Management and Course Leader of Pilot Programmes Kanchana Gamage commented:
“This event was about breaking down barriers and inspiring future pilots. It was great to bring together so many professionals to support aspiring pilots and students with their future career ambitions.”
Yatin Iyer, an aspiring pilot and A-level student who attended said:
“Thank you to the pilots who took the time to share their journeys, experiences and honest insights into life on the flight deck. Hearing real-world perspectives was genuinely inspiring. The event was incredibly valuable in highlighting the wide range of aviation work experience opportunities available, as well as the various scholarships on offer to support aspiring pilots at different stages of their journey.”
Luqman Salim, a GCSE student with an interest in aviation and airline operations said:
“The presentations were incredibly inspiring. I was lucky to go to the 737 simulator and speak to a Boeing pilot who explained how the aircraft worked while telling us about his job and how he got there! I got some amazing advice from pilots and other industry professionals. I’m so grateful I was able to attend.”
