BAA Training Aviation Academy takes care not only of those who can take us to the skies, but also provides training to those who guide pilots from the ground.
This time we got in touch with our former student, Edgaras Zubkovas, who has already completed the Flight Dispatcher’s course at the aviation academy and, at present, is successfully working at one of the fastest growing independent leisure airlines in Europe.
It is always a pleasure to get valuable insights from the students, especially after they graduate and start their career as aviation professionals. We suggest getting deeper into the peculiarities of a flight dispatcher’s job and learn more about the profession.
Why did you decide to become a flight dispatcher?
I always dreamt of becoming a pilot, so initially I was looking for pilot training. I accidently spotted BAA Training adverts on the Internet and decided to directly contact the academy. However, due to some reasons I could not take up a pilot training programme at that time. Thus, BAA Training offered me to start my path into the cockpit through the flight dispatcher’s position, as this move provides me with a better opportunity to fulfil my dream in the future.
What did you enjoy about the training process most?
First of all, I would like to point out the pleasant atmosphere which was present at the training centre. Motivated students and helpful team positively contributed to my attribute towards the academy.
Also I was very satisfied with the instructor who delivered the training. His ability to attractively present the information, give a lot of valuable insights and advice as well as suggestions of the most effective learning approaches helped me to successfully go through the training phase.
Moreover, it was a great pleasure to have a session in the Airbus A320 Full Flight Simulator. This part of training brings back truly good memories and was a really good source for gaining an even deeper practical knowledge.
Was it difficult to find a job right after the completion of your training? Did you take any additional training before you filled the position?
I consider myself very lucky as I succeeded in finding a job immediately after my training came to an end. I was fortunate to get a flight dispatcher’s position after the first call to the airline, which is located in my homeland.
Regarding additional courses, before I started to perform my duties I had training which was carried out by the airline team members.
Have you already met any professional challenges while performing your duties?
After two months of work I got used to it and cannot say that now I encounter many specific challenges. During flights we communicate with captains who reach us with various urgent requests or emergency situations and we have to resolve these matters as soon as possible without losing our attention.
However, while recalling the challenges I remember that one of the first troublesome situations that we had to cope with was related to a flight diversion to another airport. I cannot say that it was very stressful or extremely challenging, but it was a very new experience to me.
What are the duties of a flight dispatcher? What is the most exciting part of your job?
My regular tasks include planning the routes, checking NOTAMs, monitoring weather conditions, communicating with captains, etc.
I like my airline for its great attitude towards the employees; I find my working conditions favourable as well. I am very excited about the fact that I have a more or less flexible schedule, we have a good team of dispatchers. Also, I enjoy all the perks of my job, for example, in the nearest future I am going go a familiarization flight to see how the pilots do their work from the inside.
What are your plans for the future?
Currently I am thinking about getting a PPL licence to start flying and pursue my dream to become a pilot. I think I will also need to take up recurrent training.
