"One should never become a pilot just for the glamour, fame and money" - Aman Thakur

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1. Tell us about your journey?

I have seen my life to be in a positive trend ever since the beginning. Never have I ever looked at life through a negative perspective which is why I feel that I’ve sailed peacefully throughout my whole journey, made everlasting bonds with people and never faced any hardships. I feel like I’ve always belonged to the skies and thanks to my inspirational parents, I am what I am today. Starting from the school days, I wasn’t one of those brilliant students scoring A grades throughout, rather I was one of the most notorious amongst the teachers.

To fulfil the dream of becoming a pilot, I had to buckle up which I did in 12th grade and performed really well. After 12th, I went to Canada for my training and alongside I did BSc. in Aviation. This was one of the most beautiful phases of my life. Once I came back I applied for the Indian license and started preparing for the airline induction exam. After clearing the interview and a few rounds of assessment, I joined IndiGo Airlines. After which I went to Abu Dhabi to learn how to fly the Airbus A320. I came back and underwent a ground training course with IndiGo and I officially graduated as a Junior First Officer on my 22nd birthday.

2. What qualities make a good pilot and what should one know about this profession?

There are several qualities that make a good pilot like being punctual, working hard, staying dedicated and always having a good presence of mind. One should know that being a pilot is a very responsible job since you have hundreds of lives depending on you. Also, one should never become a pilot just for the glamour, fame and money but the passion to fly.

3. Where did you do your training from and which institute would you recommend?

I did my CPL training from SkyQuest Aviation, Vancouver and A320 type rating from Etihad Aviation, Abu Dhabi. I would recommend these training institutes to the aspiring pilots.

4. What's the best piece of flying advice given to you?

The best advice in flying given to me by my instructor was to always stay and plan ahead of the aircraft. 

5. What advice would you pass on to someone who wants to be a pilot?

I would advice someone to always stay focused and never give up on your dream to fly.

6. What does success look like to you in this job?

Success to me came & comes in so many different ways. One of it was wearing the uniform for the first time, another one was my first flight as a Junior First Officer with my mother being the pilot in command. But I don’t want to stop here. I’d want to fly and fly till I am able to bring about significant changes in the society I live in, wish to give back everything I’ve received as a blessing. I want to be able to help the needy, educate as many young minds as I can and most importantly, live a peaceful, healthy and a happy life.

7. Which is your favorite book and why?

My favourite book so far is ‘The Monk who sold his Ferrari’ because it teaches a person to value relationships and time and also to live life passionately.

- Aman Thakur

Interview by - Haseeb Haroon