Meet Skyborne graduate Tom Haig, 33, from Haddenham who has recently completed his UK CAA Integrated ATPL training. He is now set to embark on an exciting career with British Airways after being ‘tagged’ whilst still in training!
Tom didn’t consider becoming a pilot seriously until he was 21. His mum was cabin crew for British Airways and as a child he remembers her stories from her travels. He gained a keen interest in gliding, which led him to completing his PPL before joining Skyborne on our Integrated course.
Tom is a firm favourite around Skyborne among staff and his fellow trainees. His positive, kind, can-do nature has shone through, supporting and helping others through their training. Yet Tom credits his success to the people he has been surrounded by and the flight instructors spurring him on during tough days. His family’s support has been everything.
Tom said of his journey:
“This industry takes true grit and there will be challenges along the way. Although, do not be scared of failure as it is all part of success and that is how you will learn and grow as an individual and professional. It’s your determination and mindset that sees you to the finish line. The freedom you feel in the skies is simply magical.”
His advice for those starting out is:
‘Don’t compare yourself with anyone else, focus on your own journey. However, make sure to support each other, everyone has a different learning style. Talk to as many people in aviation as you can, and don’t be scared to ask questions, there is no such thing as a silly question. Take the training one stage at a time, and don’t give up. It is all so worth it.’
We are going to miss you, Tom, British Airways have found a true gem and we wish you all the very best as a commercial pilot.
