Name: Charlie Bode
Course:Ryanair Future Flyer Programme
Meet Charlie Bode: Finding His Route to the Flight deck
From joining the RAF Air Cadets at just 14, to pursuing his ambition of becoming a commercial airline pilot, Charlie Bode has always had a passion for aviation.
Now training at Skyborne on the Ryanair Future Flyer Programme, Charlie shares his journey, the experiences that shaped him and how he found his way to the flight deck.
When did your passion for aviation begin?
“My fascination with aviation started at a young age, I loved watching rocket launches and flying model aircraft. I joined the Royal Air Force Air Cadets when I was 14 and that really sparked my ambition to become a pilot.
During my time with the Air Cadets, I became a Qualified Aerospace Instructor, had the opportunity to volunteer at events and share my passion for aviation with others.
Volunteering at the Royal International Air Tattoo was another defining experience, where I had conversations with civilian and military pilots. This confirmed for me that this was the career I wanted to pursue.”
What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial aviation?
“One of my biggest inspirations was my former Officer Commanding in the RAF Air Cadets, Squadron Leader Robert Watmough, an ex-easyJet Captain.
His encouragement and guidance played an important role in my journey, he helped build my confidence to pursue my ambitions and work towards a career in commercial aviation.”
Your journey included joining the RAF. What made you change direction?
“I initially joined the RAF with the ambition of becoming a military pilot. However, a few weeks into Initial Officer Training, I realised that my heart was elsewhere.
Leaving was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, as I always believed it was the career I wanted.
But with the support of my family, friends and girlfriend, I rebuilt my confidence and became certain that commercial aviation was the right path for me.”
What has helped prepare you for pilot training?
“Before joining Skyborne, I had already developed a range of skills through my experiences with the RAF and previous employment at Currys.
Going through the RAF pilot application process helped me develop aptitude, communication and teamwork skills, while working in sales and warehousing gave me confidence in handling challenging situations.
My interest in model aircraft and drone racing simulators gave me an early understanding of the fundamentals of flying.”
What’s been your most memorable aviation experience?
“Flying in a Chinook helicopter is certainly one of my standout aviation experiences!
I also completed a gliding scholarship with the Honourable Company of Air Pilots. Although I didn’t quite reach the solo stage, it’s an experience I hope to revisit and complete in the future.”
What’s next for you?
“Now that I’m training on Skyborne’s Ryanair Future Flyer Programme, I’m working towards turning my long-standing passion for aviation into a career on the flight deck.”
Charlie’s journey is a reminder that there isn’t always one straightforward route into aviation. Sometimes, finding the right path means having the confidence to change direction, learn from your experiences and keep pursuing what you really want.
Could you be next?
Discover Skyborne’s pilot training programmes and take your first step towards a career in aviation.
