Daniel Parker
Daniel was inspired to start flight training after working as cabin crew. He completed the AirlineReady® APS MCC at VA Airline Training and is now flying the Boeing 737 with Jet2
What inspired you to pursue a career as a commercial pilot?
During my time as a cabin crew member with easyJet, Captain Ray Bather would show me the flight deck of the Boeing 737-700 and tell me how anyone could achieve the dream, no matter their background. He gave me the belief that I could earn a position as a pilot one day - and the rest is history!
What did you do before starting pilot training?
I spent most of my previous time as a cabin crew member for easyJet, BA and Monarch, where the passion and determination to succeed was born. I’ve been a coach driver, HGV driver and an internet radio DJ too!
Which training route did you choose to follow, and why?
I decided to go down the integrated FAA route, which at the time was very viable and cost-effective. Once back in the UK, I changed to the modular route for ATPLs and flight training. This meant my total cost was much lower than a traditional integrated course, but it did consume more time to complete.
What challenges did you face before or during training?
Time and money. Finding time to study the ATPLs at home whilst holding down a full-time job is tough. I spent many nights parked up in lay-bys revising whilst on breaks from coach driving. There was a point where I didn’t think I could raise the funds for training and that was stressful. Thankfully my bank took a chance on me, and I’m repaying their faith and funds.
What were the highlights of your time in training?
The first solo is a memory I’ll never forget, taking off from runway 25 in New Smyrna Beach in Florida and looking over to see the seat next to me empty, with the realisation that I was solely responsible and trusted by my instructor - it was truly magical. Also, Day 10 of the simulator sessions at VA, when I had proven to myself and the instructor that I was airline ready and finally at the end of my training route. I’ll forever be thankful to VA for that.
How did the competencies you developed during your APS MCC help you afterwards?
Without a doubt, the multi-crew training and procedures implemented by VA gave me the competencies to succeed during my airline simulator assessment and subsequently the type rating.
What have been the highlights since you started airline flying?
Sitting in the seat of a Boeing 737 for the first time in Newquay for base training was memorable, scary, exhilarating, and breathtaking - but looking back out of the flight deck into the cabin on my first passenger revenue flight and seeing actual people sitting there and realising that I was being entrusted to deliver them to Mallorca; that was the most rewarding feeling on this journey so far.
What advice would you give to someone about to start APS MCC training?
The APS MCC takes you from single pilot operations to multi-crew and has a direct impact on your desirability for any potential employer. Review all the pre-course information and learn as much as you can beforehand. Linking up with your new classmates also really helps. The learning curve will be tough, but this firmly puts you at an advantage in simulator assessments and type ratings.