Learn to develop your career wings

Aspiring pilots experienced their first taste of a career with wings at CTC Aviation’s open day.

Young and old toured the crew training centre Saturday, seeing first-hand what it takes to make it in the airline industry.

Tucked behind Hamilton International Airport, the CTC centre offers three courses including the Diploma in Aviation.

Flight Instructors led small groups through the facilities, showing off their gadgets and hardware, including two DA42 FNPT 11 simulators worth over $1 million each.

‘‘They’re worth just as much as the aircraft outside’’, joked Brett Mathews, a flight instructor with CTC for three years.

When asked about being a pilot, Mathews says getting out of the office is just one of the perks.

‘‘It’s great fun for sure, you’re not stuck in an office all day.

‘‘You get to see different things every day, get to see the country and get to see things you wouldn’t normally if you’re doing any other job.’’

Aviation hopefuls spoke to CTC graduates including Daniel Stark, a training captain for Eagle Airways.

Stark said: ‘‘Begin with the end in mind, where you want to be. Whether you want to stay in New Zealand or whether you want to go overseas.

‘‘Take the right subjects at school and work hard.’’

Originally established in 1992 in the UK, CTC Aviation has a large flow of international students, especially from Japan.

With 38 aircraft on hand, pilots are able to fly up to four times a week, clocking up hours towards their licenses.

Gary Walker from Te Awamutu was among those interested in a career as a pilot.

‘‘You get to see different things every day, get to see the country and get to see things you wouldn’t normally if you’re doing any other job.’’ Flight instructor Brett Mathews

‘‘When I was growing up, I was always interested in flying, I couldn’t think of anything else I’d rather do. I’ve already previously done some flying training, but I’m looking to get the ball rolling again.’’

The next step is the selection process, a series of tests to determine your piloting potential.

Captain Stark’s favourite memory of CTC was his first solitary flight. ‘‘The first time you’re in a plane by yourself is pretty special.’’

Oliver Dunn is a journalist student at Wintec.