By: Jothiganesh Subramaniam (Flight Operations)

“Airborne, right turn heading 1-3-0, climb 1000ft, cleared for take-off runway 10”, I read back the clearance as a drop of sweat dripped from my eyebrow to my cheek. The combination of 34 degree Celsius outside temp, my anxiety and nervousness made me sweat like I had a gun pointed to my head!

Power is set, aircraft begins to roll, speed’s building up fast, my heart beat was racing to the sound of the aircraft engine revving up and my palms begin to sweat. There were so many instruments to monitor, so many expectations and reviewing actions to be done. Runaway centreline was disappearing fast beneath the aircraft, as I’m getting airborne. “Are you ok, Joe? U ok” A voice heard over my headset followed by a nudge on my shoulder. I turn to my right, I see my instructor smiling at me. Yes! This is for real! I’m not dreaming! I’m actually flying a plane.

During my training in flying school, 2007

Hi guys, that was my first ever flying experience in flying school. Although I’ve witnessed many take offs and landings from the cockpit of commercial jets like Boeing 737, 777, 747 and Airbus 330, being at the control of an airplane was rather spectacular. For those who have perused my previous entry, that’s right, I got through the cadet pilot program with Malaysia Airlines, leaving my past life as a Flight Steward.

After wet drill and during graduation Batch 17/03

- 1st pic: Bottom left. 2nd pic: Top left. 2003

Here’s the process, after short listing, I was called in for a Psychomotor Test. This is an assessment of your brain-hand-eye coordination, split second thinking, reflex and your ability to understand instructions. Thereafter, a written test was to be taken whereby the applicants are tested on their IQ, Mathematics and English ability. There will also be other questionnaires on the same day meant to assess your personality. I was rather surprised with the accuracy of the test results. Then, the interview and finally the Class 1 medical check up for aviation.

After about 7 months, it was time for 16 of us to be sent to a flying school, where we will gain our basic and initial qualification/licence to be an aviator. At this point, I’m ready to tender my resignation letter as a steward with a big smile on my face. I was overwhelmed with happiness and joy, not only because I’m one step closer to my dream but also I’m still with MH.

My 1st month in flying school

In flying school we are taught many subjects, like the physics of flight, navigation, meteorology and human limitation to name a few. Completing 200 hours by flying in Single, Twin engine aircraft and simulator is part of the training. Doing what I love was fun for me at every moment.

Graduating from flying school 2008

After more than a year of intensive studies and flying at the flying school, we reported back at Malaysia Airlines as Licensed Cadet Pilots. We went through classes to prepare for our entry into the Airline world. At the next stage, cadets would have had a glimpse into hell!!! Eventually, will come through it...ALIVE!! Ha! Ha! I’m talking about the simulator sessions. We experienced the thrill and exhilaration of taking control while facing and handling all sorts of emergencies ever known to commercial flying.

Malaysia Airlines’ Boeing 737-400 Simulator

Line training was in store for us next. We fly the real aircraft, operating commercial flights while receiving further training from the instructor pilots. After all the vigorous and strenuous training and excelling through the stringent standards of Malaysia Airlines, the cadets are now deemed ready to be fully functional and competent, shouldering the trust and responsibilities given by the company to fly hundreds of lives across borders..

Being with MH has given me the opportunity to visit 53 cities in 29 different countries across 6 continents. Becoming a pilot, my perceptions and ideas about many things in life, be it professional or personal, has changed, definitely for the better but it has not changed my general self, nevertheless, it gave a new meaning and flavour to my life. I am grateful to God, family and all my superiors at MH for having been so supportive and encouraging throughout the entire process of my training up to date. I love my job, I enjoy every moment of it and not to mention, the ever changing view from my office’s window ;)

Finally, all the effort and patience paid off…

So guys, for those pursuing the same dream as me, I hope my episode will be of assistance in some or any way. Good luck and always remember; Where there is a WILL, there is a WAY, so never ever give up!!!