During the final stages of flight school, I spent most of my free time at Island Air Charter, where I began with sweeping the floors and scrubbing the planes, which eventually lead into the beginning of an exciting adventure. Kicking things off in the Cessna 172, Paul Ensor began an extensive training programme which entailed operating in adverse conditions with precision in and out of both airstrips on Motiti Island, before stepping things up to the larger Cessna 206.
I could go on about the various experiences I have gained towards my flying skills, however, that is only a small aspect of the job. Being able to share the personal connection that Paul has with Motiti Island and the locals over the years is truly something quite special. Having a coffee and a chat between flights, I have expanded my local knowledge ten-fold and thoroughly enjoyed hearing stories from Motiti island and Te Patuwai hapū right through to the history of White Island which I could then share in my commentary on local scenic flights.
Island Air has been a great starting point for my career and lead into the Airlines. Now flying Dash 8 Q300 aircraft all over New Zealand I have a new learning curve, but the skills that I gained flying with Paul and the Crew at Island Air have helped immensely. Island Air truly has the family-friendly vibe attached to it, so much so that I still find myself down there on days off sharing a coffee, a few laughs and occasionally beating Paul at a game of darts.
By Cole Mossman, Co-Pilot, Dash 8 Q300
