When Matt Jones set out to train as an airline pilot the events of 9/11 intervened, so he took up driving coaches. He is now a senior first officer on BA's 737 fleet and about to start another bus-driving course, of the A320 variety.
Have you always been interested in aviation?
For as long as I can remember. I grew up next to a Royal Air Force base and was inspired by my cousin who has pursued a very successful career in aviation in the USA. I find the airline industry itself fascinating - I can't think of a more international and (literally!) dynamic environment to work in.
When did you first get "behind the yoke"?
I was 11 and a friend's dad (who flew Lockheed TriStars in the Royal Air Force) took me up in a Piper Warrior. Despite feeling a little queasy, it was a fantastic experience. I went on to complete the RAF's Basic Glider Training course in motor gliders, culminating in my first solo when I was 16.
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What qualifications/skills does one need for a career as an airline pilot?
There are few other jobs that involve working with so many different people every day and this requires airline pilots to be strong team players. Also important are effective communication skills, high personal standards, flexibility and reliability.
In terms of UK qualifications, only GCSEs are required to enter flying school, but A-levels and/or a degree are definitely advantageous. Pilots must also meet strict medical requirements, but as I was once told, you don't have to be Superman.
Have you faced any serious challenges along the way to your career as a pilot?
After graduating from university in aeronautical engineering, and achieving my original goal of airline sponsorship, my career was put on hold by the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the subsequent effect it had on the airline industry.
During the ensuing 18 months I continued my holiday job of driving buses and coaches - I even did some work experience at Flight International. The driving work provided me with some very useful skills, for example customer service, that I now use every day.
What constitutes a typical day?
As a short-haul pilot, I complete between one and four flights a day. I check in an hour before departure and discuss with the captain the factors affecting the day's services, such as weather, issues with airport or aircraft serviceability, and how much fuel to take. Then on to the aircraft to meet the cabin crew. After safety and security checks, we can welcome our customers on board.
What are the best parts (or rewards) of your job?
Getting paid to do something you really enjoy. Plus, the beautiful scenery that we see from the "sharp-end", like the Alps, and landing at places like Venice, Salzburg and Dubrovnik is a real pleasure. We often night stop in interesting cities, giving the opportunity to relax down route. With any other career, being abroad on business would involve a lot more working, and a lot less playing. I'm very proud of providing as pleasurable a travelling experience as possible to my customers.
And what are the toughest?
Getting up at 03:00 in the middle of winter to go to work is not fun. Bad weather provides us with the majority of challenges that we face day to day. Then there's the small matter of a twice-yearly proficiency check in the simulator to be passed if we want to remain in employment.
Does flying still excite you?
Absolutely. After only four years commercial flying, I have only just started my career. The next step will be transitioning onto a larger aircraft flying long-haul routes and after that I hope to become a captain. Most pilots never get bored of flying - it's a cliche, but it really is the best job in the world.
Source: Flight International
