Overview
Meet Daniel, head of training and checking at Paspaley Aviation in Darwin, Australia.
Responsibilities
- Lead training and checking for seaplane operations, including updating manuals and developing standards for other pilots.
- Utilize a mock-up simulator for procedural training in the Mallard cockpit; conduct training with the crew and ensure programs stay current with operational standards.
- Coordinate and supervise multi-crew operations under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR); plan and manage flight operations, including preparation of flight plans and crew briefings.
- Perform tasks related to daily operations such as aircraft preparation, flight planning, and post-flight duties (e.g., aircraft wash and maintenance paperwork) to prevent corrosion when operating in salt water.
- Engage in diverse seaplane operations (multi-crew, instrument flying) and participate in high-quality, airline-style procedures while retaining the unique aspects of water landings.
Typical day
Start around 5 : 00 AM to prepare the aircraft and flight plan.Work as part of a multi-crew team : one day aircraft preparation, another day flight planning.Operate from pearl farms (e.g., Coburg Peninsula) and fly to other sites such as Broome and Kuri Bay; land on water, perform crew handovers, and manage on-water operations.Fuel and service operations (including Jet A1) at floating pennants or refueling rafts; return to Darwin and conduct instrument recency practice and required post-flight cleaning and engine washes.Qualifications and experience
Extensive experience flying seaplanes, including international operations (e.g., Hanoi, Vietnam).Progression through pilot development with key qualifications such as MECIR (Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating) and ATPL subjects; obtained these qualifications while working as a pilot.Strong practical background in the aviation industry, with a track record of applying flight experience to training, checking, and standards development.What’s valued in this role
Enjoys the diversity of seaplane operations, multi-crew coordination, instrument flying, and training / standard-setting. Pride in writing and updating manuals and improving pilot standards.
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