RANDY MARGARET AS STUDENT @ KLM FLIGHT ACADEMY

How did you get your current job?

During my fourth year I started the selection process at the KLM Flight Academy. The selection process took approximately 8 months divided over four phases. During the selection they looked at various aspects such as, teamwork, stress resistance, hand-eye-feet coordination and motivation. The Aviation Academy was a great help during the selection process. I spoke with a few teachers about how to approach a job interview and how to convey your own unique skill on a job that you are applying for (or study in this case).

What are your daily operations?

Currently I am in my multi-engine instrument phase and nearing the completion of my flight training. During this phase we learn how to fly a twin-engine aircraft, in different kind of weather conditions, relying solely on the cockpit instruments without seeing anything outside.

A normal day starts with performing the preflight preparation. I check the weather forecast for the day, if there are any relevant NOTAMs and if so, how they will affect our flight. After this I go to the aircraft to perform a walk around and look if there is nothing out of the ordinary.

After the preflight preparation I brief the flight with my instructor. During the briefing I basically give summary of my findings during the preflight preparations. We also discuss the lesson objectives and what we will be doing during the flight.

After the briefing is complete, we go to the aircraft and go flying. The lessons usually take about one to two hours, during which we practice different exercises such as take-offs, landings, technical failures and a lot more.

After the flight I debrief the flight with my instructor. We discuss how lesson went, what went well, what could be improved and how to improve it. And that usually concludes the day.

What do you like the most about flying?

I like the diversity of flying. No flight is the same and every flight I learn and do something new things. During last 1,5 year I have had the opportunity to fly to a lot of different airports in the Netherlands as well as abroad. Flying in different weather conditions and to different airports was incredibly fun and rewarding.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

The corona pandemic has brought the recruitment of new pilots around the world to a near complete halt. However, I think that in 5 years’ time the aviation industry will be recovered, and I hoped to work as a second officer at KLM flying the Boeing 777. In the meantime, I will try to apply for jobs related to my bachelor’s degree.

What did you like the most from your education that helps you out nowadays in your study?

Aviation studies was a great help during my theory phase. Many subjects were very similar which made it a lot easier. I think that doing a four-year study also helped me to develop myself in areas required for as a pilot.

Are you still connected with the Aviation Academy?

Yes, I’m still in contact with a few teachers and I try to follow some online lectures and events organized by the aviation academy. I hoped to get more involved the with the Aviation Academy in the near future.