Chris Lomas

Why did you choose to train with Airways Aviation?

I attended an Open Day at Airways Aviation and was impressed by the quality of the facilities and staff I met. The Airways team had all the time in the world to answer my questions in detail about every aspect of flight training, something I found other FTO’s were unable or unwilling to do. In addition to this, I was allowed to sit in on a live ground school class, giving me an insight into what ground school really looks like from the front line.

I attended open days at L3 Airline Academy and CAE. Airways was by far the best.

What do you enjoy most about being a student at Airways Aviation?

As a student, Airways Aviation gives you the security of training at a big academy and the ‘family feel’ of training at a small one. It’s perfect. Our class sizes are limited to 15 students, meaning our instructors have the time to give us a huge amount of personal attention (which is vital for someone like me who has been out of education for so long) We’re also a very diverse organisation with students from all over the world.

I firmly believe that training in a multicultural organisation is perfect preparation for working in the world’s most diverse job.

What did you do before you started training?

Before coming into aviation, I had a successful career as a Digital Marketing Manager for various agencies and brands in the travel industry, including thetrainline.com. Before that I worked for Apple in the Covent Garden retail store, where I gaining invaluable customer service and leadership experience. As a teenager I was an active member of the Air Cadets, and completed Advanced Glider Training (including solo flights) I am passionate about music and played bass guitar in several bands in London.

What advice would you give to anyone considering training as a pilot?

I would say there are 3 main things to consider…

Preparation – ATPL training isn’t impossible, but it is incredibly hard. You don’t have to be a genius, but you have to be ready to adapt your way of life to the learning environment you’re entering. Any pre-study you can do ahead of time will be beneficial, especially in basic Maths and Physics.

Motivation – You must be 100% sure that this is the career you want. When you’re totally sure, go for it.

Research – Speak to and visit every flight school you’re considering. Meet their staff and students. Get as many answers you can get to your questions. Don’t be won over by marketing and promises of jobs (there’s no such thing as a guaranteed job!) – choose the school where you feel you will succeed.

You must be 100% sure that this is the career you want. When you’re totally sure, go for it.

Chris is an Integrated ATPL student based at Airways Aviation Academy in Oxford. Follow his Instagram and blog for more. Contact us to begin your journey and learn more about becoming a pilot with Airways Aviation

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