What inspired you to become a pilot?
I always wanted to be an Air Force pilot because my uncle was one and he took me to the base as a child. That’s where I became fascinated with aircraft. Unfortunately this did not work out and I became an Air Traffic Controller at age 21 because civil aviation didn’t interest me at the time. However, because of this job I did several observation flights with Dutch airlines and was intrigued by this dynamic and challenging work environment and of course the joy of flying. So I decided to apply for the KLM Flight Academy and was admitted in 1992. The rest is history.
How long have you been a pilot and with what airline/company?
I’ve been a pilot since 1995 for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.
What has been your favorite travel memory?
That’s very hard to say because I have several! I’ve visited so many places but if I have to choose one I would say my visit to Zion and Bryce National Park in Utah. Doing the Angels Landing hike and watching the sunrise over Bryce was beyond amazing and impressive.
Where are you looking forward to traveling once it’s safe to do so?
KLM recently started flying to Las Vegas and I’m looking forward to flying there because I’ve never been. Also I hope we will fly to SLC again soon because I would like to visit Yellowstone. In general though, I love flying across Canada and the US and can’t wait to get back to it!